Bufori MKIII La Joya celebrates World Premiere at the New York Motor Show
NEW YORK, 18 April 2003 – Malaysian luxury automobile manufacturer Bufori has officially unveiled its all-new Bufori MKIII La Joya at the 2003 New York International Auto Show, marking a historic milestone for the independent carmaker and Malaysian automotive craftsmanship.
Making its world premiere at one of North America’s most prestigious automotive exhibitions, the MKIII La Joya has attracted considerable interest from visitors, motoring enthusiasts and members of the international media.
Two examples of the new luxury coupé, one finished in Sapphire Blue and the other in an elegant combination of silver and red, are on display at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in Manhattan. Both vehicles were specially air freighted from Bufori’s manufacturing facility in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, for the occasion.
Bufori MKIII La Joya unveiled at New York International Motor Show
Inspired by the graceful lines of luxury automobiles from the 1930s, the Bufori MKIII La Joya combines timeless contemporary-classic styling with modern engineering, advanced technology and traditional coachbuilding craftsmanship.
The distinctive two-seater features a lightweight, exceptionally strong composite body incorporating carbon fibre and Kevlar, while its supercharged 2.7-litre V6 engine delivers performance befitting its sporting character.
Despite its nostalgic appearance, the La Joya incorporates an impressive array of modern technologies, including voice-activated satellite navigation with 14 languages, run-flat tyres, tyre pressure and temperature monitoring, speed-sensitive windscreen wipers, keyless entry and electronically adjustable Recaro seats.
Bufori MKIII La Joya generates media attention
Every La Joya is individually handcrafted, allowing owners to personalise their vehicles with an extensive selection of colours, materials, finishes and bespoke appointments.
Gerry Khouri, Founder and Managing Director of Bufori, described the significance of the new model ahead of its world premiere:
“La Joya means jewel in Spanish. As far as we are concerned, it’s the jewel of Malaysia.”
For Khouri and the Bufori team, the New York debut represents the culmination of years of development and a major step towards establishing Malaysia as a recognised producer of exclusive, handcrafted luxury automobiles.
The unveiling also marks an important step in Bufori’s expansion into the American luxury automobile market. The company is represented in the United States by Bufori of America LLC, headed by President Edward W. Jacobs, with Jeffrey W. Jacobs overseeing sales operations.
Ahead of the exhibition, Bufori had already reported approximately 230 confirmed international bookings for the MKIII La Joya, including substantial interest from the United States, Europe and Australia.
The enthusiastic reception in New York demonstrates the appeal of Bufori’s distinctive approach to luxury motoring, offering an individually handcrafted alternative to conventional mass-produced luxury and sports cars.
Bufori MKIII La Joya unveiled at New York International Motor Show
The two display vehicles will remain at the New York International Auto Show before being handed over to their respective owners.
For Bufori, the world premiere represents another significant achievement in a remarkable journey that began in Australia in 1986 and has since evolved into an ambitious Malaysian luxury automobile manufacturing operation with a growing international presence.
