in Singapore – AutoApp Dev https://www.autoapp.sg/dev Mon, 25 Mar 2024 08:01:18 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9 Mercedes-AMG G 63 “Grand Edition” Debuts in Singapore https://www.autoapp.sg/dev/?p=273083 Mon, 25 Mar 2024 08:01:18 +0000 https://www.autoapp.sg/?p=273083 IWC Schaffhausen Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 also debuts.


Mercedes-Benz Singapore unveiled the Mercedes-AMG G 63 “Grand Edition” during its exclusive The Mercedes-Benz Collectors Club event, which also saw the unveiling of the IWC Schaffhausen Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 that was inspired by the Mercedes-AMG G 63 “Grand Edition”.

Mercedes-Benz highlights the exceptional status of the performance off-roader, which has been part of the legendary off-road family’s portfolio since 2002.

Limited to 1,000 units globally, the special model is painted in MANUFAKTUR night black magno, with gold-coloured details creating an exciting visual contrast and emphasising the particular design elements that trace the direct lineage of the modern off-road vehicle icon to the first G model from 1979.

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class and the Big Pilot’s Watch from IWC Schaffhausen share a similar story – they were both developed to meet purely functional requirements and have evolved over the years into modern icons while retaining their utilitarian origins.

After nearly 20 years of partnership with Mercedes-AMG, the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer now celebrates these icons with this striking special edition of the Big Pilot’s Watch.

In Singapore, eight units of the Mercedes-AMG G 63 “Grand Edition” will be available for purchase, while the IWC Schaffhausen Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 will be sold separately and is available at all IWC Schaffhausen boutiques, selected authorised retail partners or online at IWC.com.

“Since its inauguration in 1979, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class has established itself as an icon on- and off-road, delivering impeccable performance on every terrain. Today, we are proud to reveal the exclusive Mercedes-AMG G 63 “Grand Edition” in Singapore that has been made even more captivating and distinctive in this special release,” said Claudius Steinhoff, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Singapore.

“This limited-edition model reflects our commitment to creating the world’s most desirable cars and introducing them to Singapore’s most discerning car owners and collectors.”

“We are also pleased that our long-time partner, IWC Schaffhausen, has joined us in debuting their special edition IWC Schaffhausen Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63, which was inspired by the design of the Mercedes-AMG G 63 “Grand Edition”. The intersection between utilitarianism and functionality of the Big Pilot’s Watch and Mercedes-AMG G 63 is undeniable, and we are proud to work together with IWC Schaffhausen on yet another iconic launch,” he added.

For the first time, the “Grand Edition” features the AMG logo and the Mercedes star in Kalahari gold magno. In addition, the Affalterbach emblem of the performance brand is emblazoned on the bonnet in Kalahari gold magno.

The inlays in the front and rear bumpers, front optical underride protection, Mercedes star in the spare wheel inlay and the spare wheel ring are also finished in this colour. The expressive special model is fitted with 22-inch AMG forged wheels with a cross-spoke design in tech gold, with a matt black central locking nut and a Mercedes star in tech gold.

This colour tone is also used in the side foiling of the “Grand Edition” and the customised AMG Indoor Car Cover, which has a breathable outer layer of tear-resistant synthetic fibre fabric and anti-static flannel inner fabric, thus protecting the vehicle from dust and scratches in the garage.

The interior of the Mercedes-AMG G 63 “Grand Edition” is also defined by the contrast of black and gold. Upon entering the vehicle, occupants are greeted by “AMG” emblems on the black door sill trims, which have illuminated borders.

The seats are finished in MANUFAKTUR black nappa leather with contrasting gold stitching, while plaques with a gold AMG logo and gold edging are set into the backrests.

The floor mats are also finished in black and decorated with gold stitching, while the roof grab handles are finished in nappa leather.

The trim piece in the inlay of the grab handle on the passenger side is carbon with copper thread and bears a high-quality badge with the words “Grand Edition”. Other trim parts of the interior are finished in carbon with copper thread.

The AMG Performance steering wheel in DINAMICA microfibre features a steering wheel clasp with a G 63 plaque.

The IWC Schaffhausen Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 special edition watch elegantly blends a striking black and gold contrast, drawing inspiration from the Mercedes-AMG G 63 “Grand Edition.”

Crafted with precision, its case and crown are meticulously made from 18-carat Armor Gold, an innovative alloy with a modified microstructure that enhances durability.

To infuse the timepiece with a refined, contemporary charm, the surfaces have been sand-blasted with the edges polished.

The black dial boasts a relief-effect technical texture reminiscent of the sleek designs of the front grilles and air intakes found in Mercedes-AMG performance cars, while the three-dimensional appliques, coated in black using advanced PVD technology, lend depth and sophistication.

Furthermore, the white rings surrounding the subdials for small seconds and power reserve pay homage to the iconic headlights of the G-Class, further enhancing its automotive-inspired design.

Photo Credits: Mercedes-Benz Singapore and IWC Schaffhausen


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BMW World of Golf 2024 Set to Tee Off in Singapore https://www.autoapp.sg/dev/?p=272905 Tue, 19 Mar 2024 05:43:24 +0000 https://www.autoapp.sg/?p=272905 Singapore’s best amateur golfers to compete in BMW World of Golf.


BMW World of Golf, the largest BMW Golf Series in Singapore, returns in April 2024 with three local qualifying rounds over the course of April to June at Sentosa Golf Club, Singapore Island Country Club, and Tanah Merah Country Club. The BMW Golf Cup National Final is expected to take place from 4 to 6 September.

A total of three winners from the BMW Golf Cup National Final will go on to represent Singapore at the World Final that will take place in 2025.

“We are proud to have been one of 33 countries at this year’s BMW Golf Cup World Final in South Africa,” said Mr. Lars Nielsen, Managing Director, BMW Group Asia.

Lars Nielsen (extreme left)

“Golf is a sport that is synonymous with BMW’s heritage and it is an honour for Team Singapore to compete on a world-class course at such a prestigious tournament. We look forward to hosting another 1,500 participants on the green from this April and cheer them on as they attempt to secure a once-in-a-lifetime experience at next year’s World Final!”

Team Singapore recently returned home from an intense week at the luxurious Fancourt Golf Resort’s award-winning Montagu and Outeniqua golf courses. All three courses were designed by nine-time major champion Gary Player, who was also in attendance.

Team Singapore player Luisa Neo emerged among the top 5 in the Ladies Category and her guest, Risa Leong, finished second in the Guest Cup.

BMW has a long history with golf, with the BMW Golf Cup dating back to 1982. It is currently the largest international amateur tournament series that has hosted more than 800 qualifying tournaments and over 100,000 participating players in more than 40 countries.

Amateur golfers from each participating country get together yearly to compete in their National Final for a chance at the BMW Golf Cup World Final on world-class courses, with curated experiences, and special appearances by major world champions.

Photo Credits: BMW


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New cars with a manual gearbox in Singapore https://www.autoapp.sg/dev/?p=272044 Thu, 22 Feb 2024 05:28:30 +0000 https://autoapp.sg/?p=272044 As we gawked at the recently launched BMW 3.0 CSL with a manual gearbox, it got us thinking, “So, which car could you buy, brand new, with a manual gearbox in Singapore right now?”


At €800k (yes, Euros), the 50 units-only 3.0 CSL will remain a special car for the privileged few.

But say you’re a purist. A real-men-drive-three-pedals kinda guy. What are your options for a stick-shift brand-new car in 2024? Well, we’ve put together a list:

Suzuki Swift Sport

Starting with the most affordable choice of all, we have the beloved Suzuki Swift Sport.

Coming in at just under SGD 200,000 with COE, you get a peppy 138hp with a 6-speed shifter that will bring back memories of the JDM hot hatch that stole the hearts of many in the mid-2000s, albeit now at double the cost.

You won’t find this at the authorised distributor; if you’re keen, you’ll need to hook up with a grey importer, ACM Automobiles, for this baby.

Subaru BRZ

We actually drove this recently but were unfortunately offered the automatic version. But the good news is that MotorImage will bring in the manual if you beg them to do so.

With 237hp, this rear-wheel-drive sports coupe will offer you both adequate power and 6 manual gears to swap about as you enjoy its sublime chassis on the road. Be prepared to part with about SGD 230,000 in exchange for that.

Toyota GR86

You can’t talk about the BRZ without mentioning the GR86. The two cars have been joined at the hip since they were launched as offspring from a marriage between Subaru and Toyota.

Thankfully, Borneo Motors will sell you one of these with a manual tranny at SGD 142,000, without COE, of course.

Toyota GR Yaris

Speaking of Toyotas, the Gazoo Racing outfit has been churning out model after model of the fun and sporty kind. The good ol’ GR Yaris still avails itself through parallel importers.

If you’re in the market for a sweet revving 1.6-litre, 3-cylinder turbocharged hatch, we hear VINCAR might still have a couple of units.

Toyota Supra

Surprise, surprise! Well, we know for a fact that Borneo Motors brought in two manual units of the 6-speed Toyota Supra at the end of 2023. Whether or not they have since been sold, I guess you’ll have to call them to ask.

Lotus Emira

For something of the more exotic kind, you’ll be looking at yet another Toyota-powered car. The supercharged 3.5-litre V6 that powers the Lotus Emira might not sound the most inspiring, but the car as a whole is nothing short of special.

We had the pleasure of driving it (in manual!) last year, and as an ex-Lotus owner, I can say that the Emira is everything a modern Lotus should be. Pure finesse on wheels.

BMW M4 Coupe

Surprised we’re still here? So are we, actually.

When I started researching this article, I thought I’d find three or four models at best. But thanks to enthusiasts-business owners, we have importers who have brought in quite a few more choices, such as special cars like the BMW M4 coupe with a manual transmission.

For slightly more than half a Buck, ACM Automobiles will have a rare German M car sitting on your front porch.

Morgan Plus Four

Perhaps everything above was too conventional. Want something quirkier and unique? Well, the Morgan Plus Four might fit the bill.

The four-cylinder BMW-powered Plus Four is packed with a 255hp powerplant and is available on an indent basis through NB Auto. Speccing a manual gearbox would fit perfectly with this car’s old-school charm.

Porsche 718 Boxster GTS

Though this was launched some time ago, interestingly, Sgcarmart still lists this as an available model from Porsche Singapore. Well, we’re not complaining.

The 718 Boxster has been a favourite with the AutoApp team for a long time, and the 4.0-litre GTS is extra special, made even more so with the three pedals that you’ll have to work through to extract all the joy out of this 400hp machine.

And we’re done.

So there you have it, all nine cars.

There are, of course, other pre-owned alternatives in the second-hand car market you can add to the mix. The manual gearbox army may not be as strong as it used to be, but it looks like it’s not dead just yet.


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