Yesterday, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced that starting September 1, RON92 would be discontinued and in its place, the government would introduce RON95. The catch, though, is that the higher rated fuel would be slightly costlier at RM1.75 versus RM1.70 for RON92 currently.

Meanwhile, the existing RON97 (which you all are probably using) would still be maintained, except that it would now be classified as a ‘premium’ product and would be priced at RM2.00 per litre, up from the RM1.80 that it currently retails at.

When fashion and music come together at the Life Ball, the result will always be something fascinating and unique – the new Life Ball MINI created in Katy Perry-style by American designer duo The Blonds.

MINI is supporting the Life Ball for the ninth year in succession in 2009. The 17th Life Ball – taking place on 16 May 2009 – marks the beginning of a four-year cycle, the elements water, earth, air and fire representing both metaphorically and in their artistic embodiment the fundamental symbols of life. Europe’s biggest AIDS charity event offers MINI an outstanding platform on which to underline its socio-political commitment.

UPDATE: Euromobil launches the Audi Q5 today (May 11) at a price of RM299,000

Audi's march towards the number one premium auto-maker spot continues with the introduction of their new Q5 crossover, a model that promises (like just about every new crossover or SUV) to deliver 'real' saloon car dynamics in the shape on an SUV. So far, there has only been one model in this segment that lives up to that promise.

Now, there are going to be two.

Peugeot have knocked Audi firmly off the diesel-powered mantle, with the Team Peugeot Total taking top honours at last weekend’s 1,000km de Spa and looking set to repeat their success during next month’s 24-hours of Le Mans.

The Spa race, which was meant to be a shakedown event for the team ended up with a victory for Peugeot. The two 908 HDi FAP cars entered for the event completely dominated the front row during qualifying, before going on to secure strong finishes during the race proper.

Alfa Romeo are seeing a minor resurgence, with current stewards Sime Darby AutoConneXion now turning their attention to the Italian marque – one of three automotive brands in the company’s stable, which also include Ford and Land Rover.

The brand now receives a new 3S centre in Petaling Jaya, one which gives buyers a glimpse of what AutoConneXion plan for the three brands in their control. Shared with original tenants Land Rover, the joint premises points towards the increased integration that Sime Darby plans for the three marques.

MITSUBISHI TRITON TAKES MAIDEN VICTORY 

Kuala Lumpur, 29 April 2009 – Dakar rally-bred, the award-winning Mitsubishi Triton claimed its maiden victory in the AAM Malaysian 4x4 Rally Championship 2009’s opening round in Muar, Johor from 25-26 April 2009.   

The Mitsubishi Triton, driven by Lim Seng Hai and Thai co-driver Chupong Chaiwan, proved its durability and reliability to surmount challenging terrain with ease. Second was veteran William Mei and co-driver Jagdev Singh in a brand new 3-litre Isuzu D Max, trailing 1 minute and 41 seconds behind. Third were Lee Yu Leng and Jacky Ho in a Mitsubishi Storm.