All posts by Hanif Su'ib

Someone who loves driving manual cars but prefers riding an automatic scooter. Maybe it's an age thing.
NEWS

Aeson Power launches Sodium-ion automotive battery series in Malaysia, priced from RM369

Aeson Power has recently introduced a series of Sodium-ion (Na-ion) automotive batteries for the Malaysian market.

Compared to traditional lead-acid batteries, Sodium-ion batteries offer a safer, longer-lasting energy solution and serve as a more efficient alternative.

These latest batteries are compatible with over 95 percent of vehicles on the market, including private cars, commercial vehicles, industrial applications, and utilities.

They are designed to withstand Malaysia’s hot and humid tropical climate, significantly reducing the risk of fire and explosion.

In addition to stable operation in long-term conditions at temperatures of up to 80 degrees Celsius, these Sodium-ion batteries can maintain over 85 percent capacity even after being stored for a month at 60 degrees Celsius.

Utilizing polyanion cathode technology, Aeson Power’s Sodium-ion batteries offer several advantages, including:

  • Lightweight design
  • Fast charging capability (0-100 percent in 40 minutes)
  • Starting power two to three times greater
  • Cycle life up to three times longer, reaching 3,000 cycles
  • Operational voltage range from 6-14V, allowing engine starts even at 10.5V
  • Resistance to over-discharge with immediate recovery after full discharge

 

Three types of Sodium-ion batteries are available:

  • NaPulse Starting
  • NaPulse Start-Stop
  • NaForce Start-Stop

All three battery types are now available in the Malaysian market, with prices starting as low as RM369 and a three-year warranty included.

According to Jin Chan, Managing Director of Aeson Power, “Today’s launch marks a significant achievement for Aeson Power, and we are proud to introduce Sodium-ion automotive batteries to Malaysia’s dynamic market.

“This product is a testament to our commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions that not only elevate automotive performance but also contribute to a more sustainable future.”

NEWS

2025 WMoto Bobbie 450S officially launched in Malaysia – starting price from RM19,888

WMoto Malaysia has recently launched the latest cruiser model, the 2025 WMoto Bobbie 450S in conjunction with the opening of the Mforce Best Shop located in Johor Bahru.

This cruiser is powered by a liquid-cooled, 449 cc DOHC twin-cylinder engine that produces 49.6 hp at 9,500 rpm and a torque of 39 Nm at 7,600 rpm.

The engine is paired with a six-speed transmission and a chain final drive system.

The suspension features a 29-degree angled telescopic fork at the front, followed by adjustable twin shock absorbers at the rear, each offering a wheel travel of 130 mm and 100 mm, respectively.

The braking system uses a 320 mm rotor at the front and a 256 mm rotor at the rear, assisted by a two-channel ABS system.

Notable features include LED lighting units, which include daytime running lights (DRL), a digital LED meter display, a Type-A USB charging port, a dual exhaust silencer, a steering damper, and a parking brake.

The fuel tank capacity is 15 liters, while the seat height stands at 650 mm.

There are three color options available: Ground Sand Ash, Gulf Custom, and Matte Black. The selling price starts from RM19,888, excluding road tax and insurance.

NEWS

2025 Honda RS-X Winner Tricolor Edition – 800 units only, priced at RM10,298

Boon Siew Honda has launched the RS-X Winner model with Honda’s iconic Tricolor livery for the local market in conjunction with the recent Honda Thanks Day event.

Limited to just 800 units, the RS-X Winner Tricolor Edition comes with RCB accessories, which include:

  • RCB Brake Caliper S-26 Series (30th Anniversary Edition)
  • RCB Handle Grip Nagamaki
  • RCB Lever Guard

 

Each purchase of this limited edition model is accompanied by a two-year manufacturer’s warranty or a mileage limit of 20,000 km (whichever comes first), along with an additional one-year unlimited mileage warranty under the Honda X-tend campaign.

The base specifications remain unchanged, featuring a single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine with a displacement of 149.2 cc that produces 15.8 hp at 9,000 rpm and torque of 13.6 Nm at 7,000 rpm.

The transmission is a six-speed type, supported by an Assist & Slipper clutch.

The RS-X Winner utilizes a telescopic fork setup in the front, followed by a single shock absorber at the rear, while the brakes employ a hydraulic disc system with single-channel ABS.

The fuel tank has a capacity of 4.5 liters, and the seat height is 795 mm.

The selling price starts at RM10,298, excluding road tax, insurance, and registration fees.

BSH also offers standard colors such as Green, Matte Gray, and Blue, starting from RM9,998, or a special Yellow color priced at RM10,298.

NEWS

2025 Yamaha YZF-R25 officially launched in Malaysia – priced at RM23,098

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) has officially launched the upgraded 250 cc Yamaha YZF-R25 for 2025 model year.

The most significant change in this facelift version is undoubtedly its appearance, featuring a design inspired by the larger R models, sharper headlights, and a new taillight.

Additionally, the LCD display now includes connectivity to the Y-Connect smartphone application.

In terms of power, the R25 is equipped with a 249.5 cc engine capable of generating 35.4 hp at 12,000 rpm and a torque of 22.5 Nm at 10,000 rpm, paired with a six-speed transmission and assist/slipper clutch.

The suspension consists of an inverted telescopic fork at the front, followed by a single shock absorber at the rear.

The braking system features a dual-piston caliper in the front, a single-piston caliper in the back, and comes standard with a two-channel ABS braking system.

The fuel tank capacity is 14 liters, while the seat height is 780 mm.

For the Malaysian market, there are two color options available: Pearl Blue and Racing Blue, with a starting price of RM23,098.

EV, NEWS

Bookings for 2025 smart #5 now open, launch coming soon

Proton New Energy Technology (Pro-Net) has announced the opening of bookings for the 2025 smart #5 electric SUV model, which will be launched soon.

Interested Malaysians can reserve the smart #5 through the Hello smart app or the official smart Malaysia website, with a reservation fee of RM2,000.

Two variants are available: Premium and Brabus.

The smart #5 Premium features a rear-wheel-drive electric motor delivering 358 hp and 373 Nm of torque, with acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds.

On the other hand, the smart #5 Brabus comes with a dual-motor setup providing 637 hp and 710 Nm of torque, allowing for acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in as little as 3.8 seconds.

Equipped with a 100 kWh NMC battery pack, this SUV can travel up to 590 km (WLTP data) on a full charge, or up to 540 km for the Brabus variant.

With an 800V electric architecture, the smart #5 supports AC charging at 22 kW, as well as DC fast charging at 400 kW, enabling the battery to charge from 10% to 80% state of charge in just 15 minutes.

Other features include:

  • 1,530 liters of cargo space and a 72-liter frunk
  • Dual 13-inch OLED display screens
  • 25.6-inch augmented reality head-up display
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support
  • Sennheiser audio system with 20 speakers and Dolby Atmos technology
  • Nappa leather upholstery
  • Oak wood trim
  • 1.7 square meter panoramic glass roof
  • Built-in cooler in the center console storage compartment

 

The Brabus variant also includes additional features such as Launch Mode, Dinamica microfiber upholstery, red brake calipers, 21-inch Brabus Monoblock Z rims, and sport-tuned suspension.

The smart #5 offers safety features including a 360-degree camera and Smart Pilot Assist, which includes Highway Pilot Assist (HWA) with Stop & Go functionality for semi-automatic driving on highways.

 

smart #5 Brabus

smart #5 Premium

NEWS

2025 Voge SR3 officially launched – priced at RM15,888

Mforce Bike Holdings through Voge Malaysia, has officially launched the latest Voge SR3 scooter for the local market.

Powered by a single-cylinder 244.3 cc SOHC liquid-cooled engine, the scooter produces a maximum power of 26 hp at 8,250 rpm and a torque of 23 Nm at 6,500 rpm.

This power is transmitted to the wheels via a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) system combined with a V-belt final drive.

The suspension features a telescopic fork that provides a front wheel travel of 103 mm, accompanied by dual rear shock absorbers with a rear wheel travel of 130 mm.

The braking system utilizes front and rear disc brakes, aided by a two-channel ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a parking brake function.

Notable features include a smart key system with a mechanical key backup, full LED lighting, an adjustable windscreen, heated grips, and a USB Type-A charging port.

The seven-inch TFT display also provides Bluetooth connectivity for incoming call notifications and voice control.

Additional safety features include an adjustable Traction Control System (TCS), a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), a front-facing riding camera, and a side stand safety switch.

The 2025 Voge SR3 is available in three color options: white, silver, and gray, with a starting price of RM15,888, excluding road tax and insurance.

NEWS

Lepas set to enter the Malaysian market next year

Another sub-brand of Chery, Lepas, will officially be introduced to the Malaysian market in the first half of 2026.

This was announced by Chery Corporate Malaysia during the recently held Chery International User Summit 2025 at Chery’s headquarters in Wuhu, China.

The introduction of this new brand is part of a multi-brand strategy designed to cater to the full spectrum of consumers in Malaysia.

For your information, Lepas is a combination of the words “Leap” and “Passion.”

The new premium sub-brand was officially announced during the Auto Shanghai 2025 exhibition held last April as a global brand featuring unique designs.

In addition to Lepas, several other Chery sub-brands are already established in Malaysia, such as Omoda, Jaecoo, and iCaur, as well as the Jetour brand, which is managed by a different entity.

EV, NEWS

Dongfeng Box EV receives 3-star Euro NCAP rating

Undeniably, Chinese automotive manufacturers are aggressively offering electric vehicle packages at more competitive prices.

However, aside from more affordable pricing, safety aspects must also be prioritized.

In Europe, the small-sized electric hatchback Dongfeng Nammi Box has only achieved a three-star rating out of a possible five stars in the Euro NCAP crash tests.

In the latest tests conducted, Euro NCAP found that the EV had failures at several welding points, which could increase the risk of cabin deformation and compromise passenger protection.

This issue was detected during a partial overlap crash test, where the Dongfeng Box, traveling at a speed of 50 km/h, collided with a deformable barrier weighing 1,400 kg, also moving at 50 km/h.

In addition to an unstable body structure, the Dongfeng Box also had problems such as a locking mechanism that failed to operate post-impact, insufficient steering wheel airbag pressure to protect the driver’s head, and a dashboard structure that could cause injuries to the front passenger’s legs.

The Box was also reported to have failed in reducing the passenger-to-passenger impact in the front row in the event of a side-impact collision.

As a result, the Dongfeng Box achieved only 69 percent in the Adult Occupant Protection category and 67 percent in the Vulnerable Road Users category.

According to Euro NCAP, vehicle size is not a major issue, as several similarly sized electric vehicles tested previously have received four or five-star ratings.

“There are several affordable EVs such as the BYD Dolphin Surf, Firefly, MINI Cooper e, Lynk & Co 02, and Renault 4 and Renault 5 that have achieved four or five-star ratings, highlighting the safety gap between these EVs and the Dongfeng Box.”

“This failure must be addressed to align with competing models in the rapidly growing EV market,” Euro NCAP stated in a release.

NEWS

Toyota Land Cruiser FJ: A compact off-roader derived from the Hilux platform

Ahead of the Japan Mobility Show 2025, Toyota has revealed another new model to complement its existing Land Cruiser family, named the Land Cruiser FJ.

With a more compact size, the Land Cruiser FJ is positioned as an entry-level LC without compromising on durability, reliability, and off-road driving performance.

The 2026 Land Cruiser FJ will be showcased at Toyota’s booth during the Japan Mobility Show 2025, which will take place on October 30.

Here are some key facts about the 2026 Land Cruiser FJ:

 

1. Platform

Unlike the Land Cruiser 300 Series and 250 Series, which are built on the TNGA-F platform, the Land Cruiser FJ uses the IMV platform.

This means that the FJ is a sibling to models such as the Hilux, Fortuner, and the first two generations of the Innova.

Although it uses a somewhat older platform, Toyota has equipped the FJ with additional underfloor braces and a stiffer body to ensure more stable handling.

 

2. Dimensions

The Land Cruiser FJ measures 4,575 mm in length, 1,855 mm in width, and 1,960 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,580 mm—significantly smaller than the Land Cruiser 300 Series and 250 Series.

When placed next to the Corolla Cross, the FJ has a length advantage of 114 mm, though its wheelbase is 58 mm shorter.

 

3. Exterior

The boxy design of the Land Cruiser FJ draws heavily from the Land Cruiser 250 Series design.

For example, the FJ is available with two different front-end designs, one featuring C-shaped DRLs and the other using round DRLs.

The presence of a full-size spare tire mounted at the rear enhances the rugged image of the FJ.

According to Toyota, this model also features easily replaceable front and rear bumper angles, and it can accommodate various accessories.

Among these is the Land Hopper, an electric-powered personal mobility vehicle with a three-wheeled setup that can fold and be stored in the cargo space.

 

4. Interior Space

The FJ’s cabin continues to showcase a large, easily accessible array of physical control buttons.

In addition to a centralized infotainment screen, a digital cluster screen is also provided for enhanced driver convenience.

In the center console, there is a physical gear knob complete with a handbrake lever and a rotary dial specifically for off-road driving.

 

5. Engine

The Land Cruiser FJ is powered by a 2.7-liter inline four-cylinder 2TR-FE engine that produces 163 PS and 246 Nm of torque.

This power is channeled to a part-time 4WD system through a Super ECT 6-speed automatic transmission.

Additionally, Toyota has no plans to market this “baby” Land Cruiser in markets such as the United States and Europe.

Instead, Toyota will focus the Land Cruiser FJ on markets such as Southeast Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East.

This off-road SUV will be assembled at Toyota’s factory located in Thailand.

NEWS

2025 WMoto Nexy+180 officially launched in Malaysia – prices starting from RM8,988

In conjunction with the opening of Mforce Best Shop in Johor Bahru, WMoto Malaysia has launched the latest scooter, the 2025 Nexy+180.

This scooter is powered by a single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine with a displacement of 174 cc, producing 18.2 hp @ 8,500 rpm and torque of 17.2 Nm @ 6,500 rpm, paired with a CVT gearbox.

The suspension consists of a front telescopic fork with a wheel travel of 103 mm, followed by dual shock absorbers with a wheel travel of 130 mm.

The braking system features a four-piston caliper with a single 260 mm rotor at the front, complemented by a single-piston caliper and a 220 mm rotor at the rear.

Safety features include a dual-channel ABS braking system, traction control (TCS), a side stand safety switch, and a front-mounted riding recorder.

Notable features include front and rear LED lighting units, daytime running lights (DRL), a windscreen, a 6-inch TFT display, USB Type-A and Type-C charging ports, storage space with a magnetic cover, and a rear luggage rack.

The WMoto Nexy+180 also supports Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to connect to third-party applications such as Carbit Ride and Roadcam.

Available in four attractive colors: Magic Blue, Midnight Black, Nardo Grey, and Xtreme White.

The retail price starts at RM8,988, excluding road tax and insurance.

NEWS

2025 Kawasaki Z900 officially launched in Malaysia – priced from RM47,800

Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional Sdn Bhd (MODENAS) today launched the new Kawasaki Z900 2025 in conjunction with the opening of the Kawasaki Technical Centre (KTC) in Glenmarie.

The Kawasaki Z900 is powered by a 948 cc liquid-cooled inline-four engine that produces 123 hp at 9,500 rpm and 97.4 Nm of torque at 7,700 rpm.

 

This power is transmitted to the wheels through a six-speed transmission paired with an assist/slipper clutch.

The bike’s suspension features 41 mm inverted telescopic forks at the front, complemented by a horizontal back-link setup at the rear.

The braking system employs four-piston calipers with two 300 mm rotors at the front, followed by a single-piston caliper with a 250 mm rotor at the rear.

 

The Z900 comes equipped with several electronic assistance features, including:

  • Two-channel ABS
  • Quickshifter
  • Electronic cruise control
  • Traction control (KTRC)
  • Riding modes
  • Kawasaki Cornering Management Function (KCMF)

A five-inch TFT display supports connectivity to the RIDEOLOGY app, along with turn-by-turn navigation functionality.

In addition to the standard variant, the Kawasaki Z900 is also available in an SE variant that includes a package featuring:

  • Adjustable 41 mm inverted front forks
  • Ohlins S46 gas rear shock absorbers
  • Brembo braking system with M4.32 calipers and dual 300 mm rotors

The Kawasaki Z900 2025 is available at all Kawasaki All-Star and Kawasaki Exclusive dealers across the country, with color options including:

  • Metallic Moondust Grey/Metallic Spark Grey/Candy Lime Green with a Golden Blaze Green frame
  • Metallic Spark Black/Metallic Carbon Grey/Flat Super Black
  • Striking Metallic Matte Graphic Grey/Ebony/Metallic Graphite Grey with a Golden Blaze Green frame exclusive to the SE variant

The retail prices are as follows:

  • Kawasaki Z900 – RM47,800
  • Kawasaki Z900 SE – RM60,100
EV, TEST DRIVE

5 things you need to know about the Proton e.MAS 5 – first drive

To be frank, the Proton e.MAS 5 is currently one of the most interesting small electric vehicles to consider.

With an estimated selling price ranging from RM60,000 to RM80,000, the e.MAS 5 is highly suitable as a daily use vehicle.

A brief test drive conducted recently revealed some insights into what you can expect from the e.MAS 5.

Here is our concise review:

 

1. Compact Size, Yet Ample Space

It’s true that the e.MAS 5 appears compact when seen in person, even smaller than the BYD Dolphin.

However, as an electric vehicle, the e.MAS 5 offers adequate storage space, featuring a 70-liter frunk and a 375-liter cargo area (which can expand to 1,320 liters with the rear seats folded down).

Need more space? There are up to 32 storage compartments around the cabin, including a 28-liter drawer beneath the rear seats and a 20-liter space under the center console.

 

2. Comfortable Driving Position

Upon entering the cabin, I found the seats in the e.MAS 5 to be quite comfortable.

The dimensions of the driver’s seat cushion provide ample support for the thighs, making for a comfortable and less fatiguing drive.

It’s worth noting that the e.MAS 5 only features manual seat adjustments, which I personally don’t mind—fewer electronic systems to depend on.

The steering wheel is adjustable only up and down, with no telescopic adjustment.

For me, the driving position is quite comfortable, although it may not suit those with larger, taller physiques.

 

3. Acceleration and Braking

The variant I test drove was the e.MAS 5 Premium, equipped with a 114 hp/150 Nm electric motor.

While it isn’t the most powerful EV, it is sufficient for comfortable city driving and remains agile.

The e.MAS 5 can accelerate from 0 to 50 km/h in just 3.9 seconds. However, from my brief experience, it takes a bit longer to reach a top speed of 100 km/h.

What impressed me was the braking system, which can bring the vehicle to a stop from 100 to 0 km/h in just 36.9 meters without making the driver break a sweat.

 

4. Handling

Next, we were subjected to slalom and figure-eight handling tests.

With a turning radius as tight as 4.95 meters, a multi-link suspension setup, and rear-wheel drive, the e.MAS 5 displayed nimble characteristics and was easy to control.

The steering feel was adequate—not too light and quite precise.

Changing direction suddenly posed no issue; the e.MAS 5’s steering response was reassuring.

I also didn’t have to make frequent steering corrections when navigating through winding roads.

 

5. How Does It Handle on Highways?

In the next session, I experienced driving the e.MAS 5 on a high-speed track.

My conclusion? The e.MAS 5 is very stable at speeds reaching three digits.

I was pleasantly surprised to find that the suspension tuning of the e.MAS 5 felt superior compared to its larger sibling, the e.MAS 7, with significantly less body roll in corners.

Additionally, the steering was confidently tuned even at high speeds, needing minimal corrections to keep the EV on track.

The only downside I noticed was wind noise at 110 km/h, and you’ll have to be content with a maximum speed limit set at 140 km/h.

The Proton e.MAS 5 is set to launch soon, so what are your thoughts on this affordable Malaysian EV?

NEWS

Honda unveils Civic Type R HRC Rally XP rally car ahead of USGP

There remains untapped potential in Honda’s hot hatch, the Civic Type R FL5.

This was underscored by Honda’s introduction of the Civic Type R HRC Rally XP rally car in anticipation of the Formula One race in the United States this weekend.

Prominent features include the HRC racing livery, mud flaps, Speedline alloy wheels with rally specifications, and all-terrain tire wraps.

The appearance of the American Rally Association (ARA) logo indicates that this vehicle will participate in the upcoming ARA National Championship season.

The Civic Type R FL5 retains its distinctive rear wing and large openings in the front bumper; however, additional vents are now available on the engine hood for cooling purposes.

The original triple exhaust outlets have been replaced with a more streamlined single pipe.

In the cabin, the red bucket seats have been upgraded, and the door panels and digital meter cluster have been removed.

It is now equipped with a pair of racing seats, a roll cage, OMP steering wheel, a vertical handbrake lever, and a new digital instrument panel complete with gear change indicator lights.

No details about the engine specifications have been disclosed, but it is likely that the original K20 engine is retained, paired with a six-speed transmission, albeit with tuning more suitable for racing.

Similarly, the suspension settings and limited-slip differential (LSD) components may also undergo upgrades.

Notably, this vehicle features the name Liam Lawson, an F1 driver from the Red Bull team.

NEWS

Sime Motors celebrates 45th anniversary with performance by the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra

Sime Motors recently celebrated its 45th anniversary with a performance by the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra alongside stakeholders.

The gala dinner showcased world-class music under the baton of renowned conductor Gerald Salonga, featuring pianist Liu Muyu and prominent singer Aina Abdul.

Their performance delighted the audience and added vibrancy to the celebration, which honored the leadership and contributions of Sime Motors over 45 years to the Malaysian automotive industry.

In addition, Sime Motors acknowledged brand partners who have played a crucial role in the company’s growth and success.

The appreciation was personally presented by Andrew Basham, Managing Director of Sime Motors, along with Jeffrey Gan, Managing Director of Southeast Asia for Sime Motors, to representatives from BMW Group Malaysia, BYD, Denza, Ford Malaysia, Hyundai Malaysia, Jaguar Land Rover, Porsche Malaysia, and Volvo Cars Malaysia.

NEWS

Nabil Azlan crowned champion in the Pro Class of the 2025 Toyota GR Malaysia eRacing Championship

The 2025 Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia eRacing Championship concluded last weekend, showcasing remarkable performances from the country’s top simulation racers vying for a total cash prize of RM123,000.

Organized by UMW Toyota Motor, this championship also serves as a platform to discover the new generation of national racers.

There are two main categories: the Pro Championship, featuring elite simulation racers, and the Campus Tour, an initiative that brings professional-grade simulators to local universities to scout for new talent.

After three intense races in the final round, which was also the fourth and fifth rounds of the championship, siblings Nabil and Naquib Azlan emerged as the champion and overall runner-up in the Pro Class.

Meanwhile, Taj Izrin Aiman secured third place, successfully defending his GT title.

Twenty-six-year-old Taj Aiman will represent Malaysia at the Toyota GR Asia eSports GT Championship in Bangkok this November, joined by Iqbal Suji in second place and Chong Kai Chang in third.

This year, the Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia eRacing Championship featured a multi-platform format, including Assetto Corsa, RaceRoom, iRacing, and Gran Turismo 7.

Each platform showcased unique handling dynamics, compelling racers to adapt to various racing conditions, closely resembling international league standards.

This new format also saw 35 percent of the semi-final participants consisting of newcomers, many of whom have prior experience in sim racing.

According to Nabil, who took home a prize of RM25,000, “This year’s championship format is very different; it is not only better but also more challenging, forcing us to learn and adapt.

“Each platform tests various aspects of driving techniques and racing strategies. Sim racing has taught me to become a better and more competitive racer,” he added.

Additionally, the final race of the Campus Tour featured the ten fastest participants from each university, with Randy Goh from INTI Subang emerging as the champion.

Moreover, a Media Exhibition Race involved ten media practitioners who experienced the thrill of using professional simulators for the first time.

In the meantime, Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia has also announced the opening of registrations for the Toyota Gazoo Racing Young Talent Development program for the 2026 intake.

Open to simulation racers and kart racers aged between 16 and 22, the program offers a comprehensive training package under the guidance of professional mentors.

It has proven to be a platform that has produced many renowned racers in Malaysia.

Those interested can register at the website tyt.my/rookiesignup2026 before the application deadline on October 26, 2025.

NEWS

Ford launches more drift-friendly Mustang EcoBoost

Ford has introduced several high-performance variants based on the seventh-generation Mustang, including the Dark Horse and GTD models.

Now, another variant has been launched for enthusiasts who need not worry about budget constraints: the Mustang EcoBoost RTR Package.

With upgrade options from RTR, the Mustang EcoBoost is now more capable as a true drift machine.

Key features include Brembo brakes from the GT Performance Package, which comprise six-piston calipers at the front and four-piston calipers at the rear.

Additionally, the rear subframe from the Dark Horse model has been incorporated, along with front and rear sway bars for a stiffer chassis.

Other features include an optimized steering gear, new tuning for the stability control system, MagneRide dampers, an Electronic Drift Brake, and a high-performance exhaust system complete with four tips.

Visual upgrades include illuminated exhaust tips, an RTR grille and logo, a front fascia from the GT model, a GT Performance Pack spoiler at the rear, and Tarnished Dark Anodized accents.

Lastly, a Hyper Lime color package has been introduced to replace the black on the Brembo brake calipers, accompanied by unique stitching within the cabin.

The Ford Mustang EcoBoost does not come with a power upgrade, meaning it retains the 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, generating 315 hp and 475 Nm of torque.

Although it is only offered with a 10-speed automatic transmission, it still features the RTR anti-lag system taken from the GT race car.

The official sales price has not yet been disclosed.

NEWS

Sports cars like the IDx could attract young buyers, says Nissan CEO

Nissan is currently facing significant challenges, forcing the company to lay off a large number of employees and close several factories around the world.

While Nissan’s focus has shifted towards high-volume vehicle models, the manufacturer acknowledges that sporty models could be a game-changer and pique the interest of younger consumers.

Speaking to Kuruma News, Nissan CEO Ivan Espinosa explained that sports cars like the IDx could help revitalize the Nissan brand.

He added that such models have the potential to appeal to a younger demographic, making it essential for manufacturers to continuously attract younger consumers to their brand.

Espinosa also expressed his desire to revive the Silvia nameplate.

“The Nissan S15, particularly with its high-output 2.0-liter turbo engine, is one of the favorite cars in Nissan’s history. In my opinion, it is one of the best lightweight sports cars we have ever produced.”

He acknowledged that it is quite challenging to reproduce a car with a lightweight chassis while simultaneously meeting today’s stricter safety regulations.

Undoubtedly, if Nissan wants to follow in Toyota’s footsteps, the IDx concept model is a suitable candidate to be highlighted.

The IDx concept model was displayed at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show as a response to the Toyota 86/Subaru BRZ, featuring an exterior design inspired by the Datsun 510.

Unfortunately, the IDx has yet to be realized to date.

EV, NEWS

SAIC Motor Malaysia announces plan to assemble MG’s first EV in Melaka, starting in 2026

SAIC Motor Malaysia today announced plans to begin local assembly of MG vehicles in Malaysia in the first quarter of 2026, marking a significant milestone in bringing MG products closer to local customers while strengthening the brand’s regional growth.

The announcement was made by Mr Emory Qi, Managing Director of SAIC Motor Malaysia, in the presence of YBhg Datuk Dr Aminar Rashid, Chairman of the Malaysia Automotive Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii), and YBhg En. Hamidon Bin Abdullah, Executive Chairman of EP Manufacturing Berhad (EPMB), during a special event attended by partners, media, and key industry stakeholders.

“This remarkable journey would not have been possible without the support of our dealers, business partners, media, and colleagues,” said Emory Qi. “Local assembly will be a key milestone that brings us closer to customers while reinforcing our role as a regional hub for MG.”

As part of its commitment to accelerate localisation, SAIC Motor Malaysia will begin local assembly in partnership with EPMB in Melaka. The Melaka facility will be capable of assembling green energy vehicles including BEV and HEV, as well as internal combustion engine (ICE) models under one roof. The strategy focuses on three priorities: affordability, faster delivery, and stronger localisation, aligning with SAIC Motor’s vision of a green energy vehicle roadmap presented at Auto Shanghai 2025.

“We are pleased to partner with SAIC Motor – our second state-owned OEM partner – to assemble the MG models in Malaysia. One will be the first electric vehicle locally assembled at our Melaka plant. Through collaboration with local suppliers, we will accelerate localization, including battery pack assembly for MG vehicles, enhancing our value proposition and better serving the Malaysian market”, said En Hamidon Abdullah, Executive Chairman of EPMB.

“Our assembly line will fully meet customer demand, ensuring a smoother and faster ownership experience,” Emory added. “Most importantly, quality is non-negotiable. Every locally assembled vehicle will undergo stringent global-level inspections through SAIC’s Quality Sustenance Programme.”

SAIC Motor Malaysia highlighted several factors that make Malaysia the ideal location for local assembly. The 50-year friendship between Malaysia and China provides a strong foundation of trust and collaboration, while Malaysia’s strategic location within ASEAN positions it as a natural hub for regional distribution and growth. Beyond vehicle assembly, the investment will create jobs, strengthen the vendor ecosystem, and lay the groundwork for future R&D development in Malaysia.

“Today’s announcement is only the beginning,” Emory concluded. “Together with our partners and local talent, we are building a future where innovation, sustainability, and opportunity drive Malaysia forward with MG.”

Since its launch just over a year ago, SAIC Motor Malaysia has expanded its network to 26 MG Motor Authorised Dealerships nationwide, including three showrooms in Sarawak, with three more on the way. Its five-model line-up now includes the all-electric MGS5 EV, reflecting the brand’s shift toward green energy vehicles. The strong reception of the MG Cyberster has also made Malaysia the best-performing market in Asia and Oceania for the brand’s iconic all-electric roadster.

NEWS

2026 Honda CB1000F officially unveiled in Europe

Honda continues the legacy of the ‘CB’ family with the launch of the new CB1000F model for 2026.

Built on the CB1000 Hornet platform, the CB1000F is equipped with a re-tuned 1,000 cc inline-four engine, delivering a more powerful riding experience in the low to mid RPM range.

It is now capable of generating up to 122 hp at 9,000 rpm and a torque of 103 Nm at 8,000 rpm.

The gear ratio has also been revised, accompanied by an assist/slipper clutch for a more relaxed riding experience.

The suspension of the CB1000F consists of 41 mm inverted Showa SFF-BP front forks, complemented by Pro-Link suspension at the rear, offering wheel travel of 130 mm and 140 mm, respectively.

This retro roadster is also equipped with a Nissin braking system, featuring a four-piston brake caliper paired with dual 310 mm rotors at the front, along with a single-piston caliper and a 240 mm rotor at the rear.

Enhancing the modern retro style of this machine are the classic-style exhaust pipes, 17-inch aluminum rims, and front and rear LED lighting systems.

Standard features of the CB1000F include a dual-channel ABS system, supported by a six-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU), a throttle-by-wire (TBW) system, riding modes (Standard, Rain, and Sport), wheelie control, and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC).

Riders can access important information through a five-inch TFT display that can be paired with the RoadSync app.

The fuel tank capacity is 16 liters, while the seat height is set at 795 mm.

Three colors are available for the Honda CB1000F: Wolf Silver Metallic with blue stripes, Wolf Silver Metallic with gray stripes, and Graphite Black.

Owners can also purchase various accessories, including a more comfortable seat, engine guards, a headlamp housing, a quick shifter, radiator shrouds, a 3-liter tank bag, and soft luggage with a capacity of 10 liters for each side.

EV, NEWS

Daihatsu Midget X: a small electric LCV concept

Daihatsu is set to showcase several concept models at the Japan Mobility Show 2025, taking place at the end of this month.

One of the models on display will be the Midget X, a small electric vehicle designed for commercial use.

The exterior design of the Midget X serves as a reference and homage to the two previous generations of the Midget.

It features round LED headlights, a curved windshield, and exposed wheel designs.

In line with its nature as a workhorse, the rear of the Midget X can be fitted with various accessories, such as storage boxes, a flatbed, an open cargo area styled like a pickup, or a dedicated workspace.

Based on teaser videos, the Midget X can also be used as a weekend track car!

For now, the Daihatsu Midget X remains a concept vehicle, but it’s not impossible that it could also become a real production model.