Happenings

Exclusive Interview: Rebecca Lim

BY Azfar Hashim

Part of being a brand ambassador for Mercedes-Benz, Rebecca Lim was presented with a CLA 200. In this exclusive, we ask her about her new car and also assess her saleswoman-ship.

Photos courtesy of Daimler South East Asia and Burnpavement archive

You should already know who this sweet-looking lady is. She is Rebecca Lim, a successful personality who regularly stars in TV shows and graces the pages of magazines; and until a few months ago, is also the brand ambassador for Mercedes-Benz. She was chosen, together with fellow personality Desmond Tan, to inspire younger generation of drivers to look towards the Mercedes-Benz brand.

Just recently, she took time off her busy schedule to talk to Burnpavement about her involvement with the brand and the car she was presented with by Mercedes-Benz as part of her 'duty' as ambassador: the CLA 200. And of course, we even slotted in some 'bonus' questions; let's just say we're impressed (like how we equally could not stop looking at her smile)…

Burnpavement (BP): How would you rate your knowledge on cars?

Rebecca Lim (RL): To be extremely honest, not fantastic. I hope to learn more as I go along. As of now, I rate myself 6.5/10.

BP: What were your first impressions of the Mercedes-Benz CLA?

RL: It was pretty much love at first sight. Extremely sexy styling going on. I loved how sporty and stylish it looks not only on the outside, but also on the inside.

BP: How is the ownership experience so far?

RL: It has been great! I have always dreamed of owning a car and to be an ambassador of a luxury car, that has so many years of history and a great track record, it has been more than I've ever dreamed of.

It has given me a lot more reason to go out and run my errands. I also drive my family about all the time now and they love the ride as well. A perfect combination of style and comfort. Love it!

BP: Your one favourite feature of the Mercedes-Benz CLA?

RL: I like the safety features of the CLA. One of which is the COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST that beeps to warn you when you are heading too fast towards a car or an object. If you're not quick enough, the adaptive brake assist can apply additional braking power to prevent collision. I feel safe in the CLA.

BP: How does the Mercedes-Benz CLA perform in your hands?

RL: The drive of the CLA is extremely solid. The CLA's drag coefficient is very low so its sleek design isn't only gorgeous but it is functional as it makes it an extremely aerodynamic car. Together with its 156 bhp and 7G-DCT dual-clutch transmission, the car has more than enough oomph to get it moving quickly.

BP: Have you added anything to your CLA to personalize it? Like, say, adding a plush toy or good luck charm, etc.

RL: I'm not one who would hang charms or stick bumper stickers on my car. I like to keep it simple and classic, the way it is. But the spacious boot space has been semi converted into a mini wardrobe for me. Due to my work schedule, I have to rush from one assignment to the next and the car has been an extremely helpful in that I can dump all my shoes and clothes in the boot.

BP: The CLA aside, what is your favourite Mercedes-Benz?

RL: The A-Class. I like cars that are stylish yet practical at the same time, and the A-Class embodies that as well.

BP: If you were tasked to sell a Mercedes-Benz CLA to a layman, what would you tell him?

RL: The CLA is a new benchmark in the evolution of style and it harmonizes comfort, sportiness and practicality perfectly. With its good looks and solid feel, it totally suits a stylish individual like yourself. So, what are you waiting for?