Weekend with the MG Cyberster (Part 2): Tosca Italian Trattoria at DoubleTree by Hilton Shah Alam i-City

On the second day, we decided to venture a little further from Petaling Jaya to DoubleTree by Hilton Shah Alam i-City to test how comfortable the MG Cyberster is on longer journeys. Being a supercar, the MG Cyberster rides quite low to the ground and features a suspension setup that lets you feel the road—an important trait when driving a high-performance vehicle.

In my opinion, it’s not the most comfortable vehicle for long-distance trips (the MG4 or MGS5 would be better suited for this), however, our trip from Kota Damansara over to i-City Shah Alam was quite pleasant, as it was mostly on the NKVE highway and traffic was light as it was a weekend. Had to resist the urge to open up the throttle (figuratively speaking), but I abided by the speed limit. Although the hotel is located quite far from my house in Petaling Jaya, I was surprised to notice that conservative driving barely used up much battery power. The mall adjacent to the hotel had EV charging bays, but since I still had 80+% of battery power left, I decided not to charge and instead parked it in the hotel’s driveway, which yet again attracted quite a bit of attention from passersby.

The MG Cyberster features advanced battery technology, which plays a crucial role in delivering its impressive electric performance and extended driving range. Central to this is MG’s collaboration with CATL (Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited), the world’s largest battery supplier, which underscores the brand’s commitment to integrating reliable, cutting-edge EV battery systems in its vehicles.

CATL’s expertise in lithium-ion battery development brings a high level of trust and proven technology to the Cyberster’s powertrain. This partnership ensures that the 77 kWh NCM (Nickel Cobalt Manganese) battery pack offers a balance of energy density, longevity, and safety needed for a high-performance electric roadster. By sourcing batteries from CATL, MG assures customers of quality components that meet rigorous international standards.

The 77 kWh battery enables the MG Cyberster AWD to achieve an estimated driving range of approximately 446 kilometers under WLTP conditions, a practical distance for daily commuting and weekend drives in Malaysia. Fast charging capability further enhances convenience—with the car capable of charging from 10% to 80% in around 38 minutes using a 150 kW DC fast charger, minimising downtime on longer trips.

Beyond its capacity, the battery system is equipped with intelligent thermal management to maintain optimal operating temperature, protecting battery health and maximising performance regardless of Malaysia’s tropical climate. Additionally, regenerative braking helps recapture energy during deceleration, improving overall efficiency. However, I kept it on the minimum setting to ensure the most comfortable and smooth ride possible for my passenger (higher settings induced more drag during deceleration).

Nestled within the modern architecture of DoubleTree by Hilton Shah Alam i-City, Tosca Italian Trattoria emerges as a sophisticated culinary destination that’s redefining weekend dining in the Klang Valley. This stylish poolside restaurant seamlessly blends authentic Italian craftsmanship with contemporary Malaysian hospitality, offering discerning diners an escape to la dolce vita without the need for a journey to Kuala Lumpur or Petaling Jaya.

DoubleTree by Hilton Shah Alam i-City stands as more than just accommodation—it’s a modern lifestyle hub where sustainability meets luxury. The hotel’s commitment to eco-conscious hospitality, combined with its vibrant dining scene, positions it as the perfect destination for affluent travellers and food enthusiasts seeking both comfort and culinary excellence.

On selected weekends (do check their social media pages for more info), Tosca transforms into a theatrical dining experience with its “Stirred and Served” semi-buffet concept. Priced at RM168 nett per person, this indulgent offering includes three signature beverages—a crafted cocktail, white wine, and red wine—alongside an exquisite culinary journey. For those preferring to skip the libations, the RM128 nett option still delivers the full gastronomic experience.

What sets Tosca apart is the palpable sense of occasion. Air-flown crustaceans arrive tableside with ceremonial flair, their freshness evident in every succulent bite. The restaurant’s commitment to premium ingredients shines through each carefully curated dish, from the indulgent True Tagliatelle crowned with button mushrooms, mascarpone black truffle, and essence of truffle, to the luxurious King Prawn Risotto brimming with king tiger prawns, cuttlefish, and crab meat in a fragrant seafood bisque.

Meat lovers aren’t forgotten, with the tender Beef Rib Steak served alongside cherry tomatoes and peppery arugula, or the Grilled Lamb Chops Scottadito accompanied by roasted potatoes and capsicum. The Grilled Chicken Diavolo offers a delightfully spicy option, perfectly balanced with rosemary polenta and vine-ripened tomatoes.

Adding another layer of excitement, Tosca welcomes a special guest mixologist on the first Sunday of every month from 11:30am to 3:00pm. These rotating artisans bring fresh perspectives to the bar, crafting innovative cocktails that complement the robust Italian flavours while creating an ever-evolving weekend scene that rewards repeat visits.

The restaurant’s design strikes a balance between intimacy and social vibrancy, with indoor seating offering air-conditioned comfort and an alfresco section that captures the tropical ambience. Whether you’re planning a romantic date, a gathering with friends, or simply treating yourself to a weekend indulgence, Tosca’s atmosphere adapts beautifully to the occasion.

What truly distinguishes Tosca is its dedication to authenticity with recipes that honour traditional Italian techniques while embracing the finest fresh ingredients available. This commitment to quality, combined with DoubleTree’s reputation for warm hospitality, creates a dining experience that feels both transportive and comfortingly accessible.

For residents of Shah Alam, Klang, and surrounding areas, Tosca eliminates the need for lengthy drives to Kuala Lumpur or Petaling Jaya. For more info, head over to https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/szbsadi-doubletree-shah-alam-i-city/dining/

Thanks for having us over!

MG, short for Morris Garages, is a British marque with a rich heritage dating back to 1924. Founded in Oxford by Cecil Kimber, MG initially built its reputation through sporty, affordable cars known for their driving enjoyment. The brand also has strong ties to motorsport, with early successes in racing helping to establish its performance credentials and enthusiastic following. Over the decades, MG’s identity as a maker of classic British sports cars became iconic worldwide. Today’s MG Cyberster carries forward this legacy by combining the marque’s traditional roadster spirit with contemporary electric vehicle technology, reflecting both its historical roots and future-focused ambitions.

​Besides the flagship Cyberster, MG also has various other models available in Malaysia, including the highly accessible MG5 sedan (NA engine), as well as multiple SUVs and crossovers like the powerful MG4 EV (my favourite besides the Cyberster!), MGS5 EV, MG ZS EV, and MG HS (NA engine). MG has some attractive year-end promotions for their ICE and EV models so do check out their social media pages or website at https://www.mgmalaysia.com/

If you’re looking to get a CBU MG EV, you might want to do so before the (CBU EV) tax holiday ends in Malaysia on 31 December 2025.

Test drive the MG Cyberster at authorised MG showrooms in Malaysia. For more info, head over to https://www.mgmalaysia.com/model/mg-cyberster/

Photos shot by the author using the vivo X200

Leave a comment