ASEAN NCAP has announced that Toyota Yaris Cross has successfully achieved a five-star rating in the new vehicle assessment tests conducted.
In the evaluation, the Toyota Yaris Cross received an overall score of 83.02 points, assessed based on four categories:
Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) – 36.36/40.00
Child Occupant Protection (COP) – 17.32/20.00
Safety Assistance (SA) – 16.89/20.00
Motorcycle Safety (MS) – 12.21/20.00
Depending on the market, the Toyota Yaris Cross, specially designed for the ASEAN market (excluding Singapore, which receives the TNGA Yaris Cross model), is equipped with standard safety features such as six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ABS, seatbelt reminder (SBR) for front and rear passengers, and pedestrian protection technology.
Several advanced functions are also included, such as Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Blind Spot Detection (BSD) for both left and right sides, Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Keeping Assistance (LKA), and Automatic High Beams (AHB).
Take a look at the image above. Malaysia is listed in the production schedule dedicated to the ASEAN market.
Does this mean the Yaris Cross will be arriving in Malaysia soon?
More than a year after its first unveiling, Omoda | Jaecoo Malaysia has officially launched their second SUV model, the Jaecoo J8, last month.
Retaining the off-road theme, the Jaecoo J8 presents a more elegant and luxurious image compared to its sibling, the J7.
During the launch, the J8 was described as a rugged vehicle providing a first-class passenger experience.
To demonstrate the true capability of this SUV in more challenging terrain, Omoda | Jaecoo Malaysia hosted an off-road driving experience session at Sepang Bay 13.
Several obstacles were set up, starting with the Rock Crawl section, a 30-degree Side Slope, a Log Run simulating a path over logs, and a Water Wading section.
The rainy weather in the early morning provided a more challenging surface compared to the previous day.
Despite being equipped with standard Michelin e-Premacy tires, the Jaecoo J8 had no trouble navigating the previously mentioned challenges.
So, what is the secret that prevents the Jaecoo J8 from making drivers sweat?
1. Powerful Engine
The 2.0L turbo inline-four engine, capable of delivering 249 PS and 385 Nm of torque, responds quickly without significant delay.
With just consistent throttle control, this SUV successfully tackled all the challenging sections presented.
Most importantly, it was hard to detect any tire slippage, showcasing the efficiency of the systems offered.
2. AWD System with Torque Vectoring Control
For this challenge, we had the opportunity to drive the all-wheel-drive (AWD) version of the Jaecoo J8, which is also equipped with Dynamic Torque Vectoring Control.
According to Jaecoo, this AWD system features a dual-clutch setup that can independently distribute torque, allowing 100% of the engine power to be sent to the rear wheels that have better traction.
3. Adaptive CDC Suspension
As standard, the Jaecoo J8 comes with MacPherson strut suspension at the front, assisted by a multi-link setup at the rear.
It also features CDC, which stands for Continuous Damping Control.
This CDC feature adjusts the suspension damping settings in as little as 0.002 seconds, depending on the selected driving mode and current road conditions.
There are three levels: Soft, Medium, and Hard.
What we noticed was that the cabin remained free of significant vibrations and noise from rough road surfaces, particularly while navigating the Rock Crawl section.
It felt like nothing was happening inside the cabin, even though outside, we witnessed the chassis of the Jaecoo J8 swaying and bouncing as it attempted to overcome the large rocky path.
The driver could still maintain calm, confidence, and smooth control while not sacrificing comfort.
4. Powerful Weapon for Flash Floods in the Capital
The Jaecoo J8 offers a ground clearance of 170 mm, which is relatively standard compared to other off-road SUVs.
However, with the ability to wade through water up to 450 mm deep, it is a highly beneficial feature for Malaysians occasionally facing flash floods in the capital.
Or perhaps when navigating rural backroads to complete tasks.
Or if you occasionally want to unwind in a camping area that is generally far from major road access, where the road surfaces are not always pleasant.
Conclusion
You no longer need to spend RM400k-RM500k to enjoy an exhilarating off-road experience.
With a budget starting from just RM198,800 for the AWD version, you can experience a stylish and comfortable premium urban SUV, while also having the confidence to conquer all kinds of terrains.
Suzuki Motor Corporation has announced significant changes to the GSX-R1000R model in conjunction with the 40th anniversary of the iconic GSX-R series.
Since the introduction of the first-generation GSX-R750 in 1985, the series has surpassed a production total of 1.2 million units.
It has also garnered numerous championship titles in the FIM Endurance World Championship, Superbike World Championship, and the All-Japan Road Race Championship.
What’s new in the latest GSX-R1000R?
1. Engine
The Suzuki GSX-R1000R retains the same 999 cc inline four-cylinder engine found in previous models. However, several internal components have been upgraded, including the cylinder head, fuel injection unit, camshaft, valves, pistons, and crankshaft.
These enhancements have been made to ensure the engine complies with the stricter Euro5+ emissions and noise standards. Despite these constraints, the GSX-R1000R can still deliver a power output of 195 PS at 13,200 rpm and torque of 110 Nm at 11,000 rpm.
2. Chassis
The motorcycle continues to feature a lightweight and compact twin-spar aluminum frame. However, it now comes equipped with carbon fiber winglets, similar to those used on the Team Suzuki CN Challenge race bike at the 2024 Suzuka 8 Hour Race.
These components are designed to generate downforce to prevent the front wheel from lifting when exiting corners, ensuring smoother acceleration.
3. Electronic Systems
The Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (SIRS) includes several functions, such as:
Motion Track Traction Control
Anti-lift Control (for the front wheel)
Roll Torque Control
Launch Control
These features are intended to ensure smoother and more controlled acceleration.
Additionally, the motorcycle includes a two-way quick shifter and the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) for riding mode selection.
4. 40th Anniversary Color Schemes
To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the GSX-R series, three color schemes are available:
Pearl Vigor Blue/Pearl Tech White
Candy Daring Red/Pearl Tech White
Pearl Ignite Yellow/Metallic Mat Stellar Blue
Graphics featuring the 40th anniversary logo will be displayed on the side panels and fuel tank, while the GSX-R logo is featured on the seat and exhaust muffler.
GWM Malaysia has announced an update for the Haval H6 HEV hybrid SUV model, which is now offered with a Phantom Black interior finish.
To enhance the premium and sporty image, the interior also features a matte silver trim and the use of soft-touch materials.
According to GWM Malaysia, this change aligns with user feedback regarding the hybrid SUV model.
Additionally, GWM Malaysia is extending the warranty period for the Haval H6 HEV’s battery from eight to ten years, or mileage of up to one million kilometers (whichever comes first).
This warranty is also transferable to subsequent owners, providing peace of mind along with ensuring better resale value for owners.
As standard, the Haval H6 HEV comes with the following warranty packages:
Manufacturer’s warranty: 7 years/200,000 km
Engine warranty: 10 years/1,000,000 km
HEV battery warranty: 10 years/1,000,000 km
HEV system warranty: 8 years/1,000,000 km
Meanwhile, subsequent owners can enjoy the following protections:
Unchanged manufacturer’s warranty
Engine warranty: 7 years/200,000 km
Continuing battery warranty: 10 years/1,000,000 km
HEV system warranty: 8 years/200,000 km
There are no changes in specifications, as the Haval H6 HEV is still powered by a 1.5-liter hybrid engine producing a total power output of 243 PS and 530 Nm.
In the Malaysian market, the Haval H6 HEV is priced starting from RM139,800.
With a total power output of 805 hp and 1,420 Nm of torque, the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance can be considered a powerful and formidable machine.
However, the team at Brabus disagrees.
As a result, they have created a special package named the Brabus 1000, based on the AMG GT 63 S E.
Brabus engineers have increased the original V8 engine displacement to 4.5 liters and paired it with a set of larger turbochargers.
Additionally, the vehicle features a billet aluminum crankshaft, high-performance forged connecting rods, and a custom stainless steel exhaust system.
The engine alone produces 785 hp and 1,250 Nm of torque, which is enhanced by an electric motor delivering an additional 201 hp, resulting in a total power output of 986 hp (1,000 PS) and torque of 1,820 Nm.
To protect the transmission system, Brabus has limited the torque delivery to just 1,620 Nm.
The acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h now occurs in a swift 2.6 seconds, while the sprint from 0 to 200 km/h takes just 9.5 seconds.
To reach a speed of 300 km/h, the Brabus 1000 achieves this in only 23.6 seconds before hitting a top speed of 320 km/h.
The aerodynamic aspects of the Brabus 1000 have also been re-evaluated, featuring new canards, a carbon fiber grille trim, and a front splitter.
The rear is adorned with a fixed wing and carbon diffuser.
This machine is equipped with a combination of 21-inch and 22-inch wheels, along with KW suspension that lowers the ride height by 20 mm.
The cockpit is finished with red accents and carbon fiber elements, visible in the door switch panels, speaker grilles, and air vents.
The starting price for a Brabus 1000 is €445,900 (approximately RM2.18 million).
In conjunction with the recent 2025 Art of Speed event, Harley-Davidson Malaysia took the opportunity to launch six updated cruiser models.
Here is the list of the six models offered:
Street Bob – RM119,900
Heritage Classic – RM143,900
Breakout – RM146,900
Fat Boy – RM149,900
Low Rider S – RM134,900
Low Rider ST – RM150,900
All of these cruiser units are built on the same Softail chassis, featuring a hidden single rear suspension.
The six new cruiser models are equipped with the Milwaukee-Eight™ 117 engine, displacing 1,923 cc, but they come with different power calibrations.
The Street Bob and Heritage Classic receive the Classic Powertrain tuning with 91 hp and 156 Nm, while the Breakout and Fat Boy come with the Custom Powertrain tuning, offering 103 hp and 168 Nm.
Meanwhile, the Low Rider S and ST are tuned for High Output, delivering 114 hp and 173 Nm.
The recent 2025 Toyota Start Your Impossible (SYI) Outrun event drew over 6,500 participants to the grounds of Dataran Wawasan Putrajaya on July 27.
The fourth edition of the SYI Outrun successfully raised RM200,000, which will be donated to the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM).
Since 2020, Toyota has raised over RM500,000 for this organization.
According to Datuk Ravindran K, President of UMW Toyota Motor, “Mobility is more than just transportation; it is about empowering people in every sense.
“SYI Outrun serves as a strong reminder of the positive change we inspire when we move with purpose.
“Today, Malaysians from various backgrounds came together for a common goal of bringing hope, and this is the true spirit of Start Your Impossible.”
For the first time, SYI Outrun introduced a 21KM half marathon category alongside the existing 10KM and 5KM categories.
In addition to experienced runners, the event also featured cancer survivors and members of the Little Fighter Runners club, as well as Bikeisable.
Besides the run, a variety of exciting activities were offered through interactive booths by NCSM, N8 Sports Nutrition, a percussion performance, free health checks, and an exhibition of Toyota vehicles.
The top 10 winners in the 10KM and 21KM categories took home prizes valued at RM138,000, with additional lucky draw prizes worth over RM19,000, including a Sony Bravia TV, a Garmin Forerunner Triathlon watch, and a PlayStation 5 console.
Jetour Auto Malaysia has officially commenced local assembly operations (CKD) for the Dashing SUV and VT9 models at the Berjaya Assembly Sdn Bhd (B-Assembly) facility in Tampoi, Johor Bahru.
The 640,000 square-foot facility provides over 100 job opportunities, establishing Malaysia as a strategic hub for manufacturing and distribution within the ASEAN region.
B-Assembly, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Berjaya Assets Berhad, serves as Jetour’s local assembly partner.
This existing facility is equipped with Industry 4.0-capable systems, reflecting the shared commitment of both companies to high manufacturing standards, operational efficiency, and sustainable mobility solutions.
Wen Qiangkang, Vice President of Jetour International, stated, “This significant achievement reflects our strong confidence in Malaysia as a strategic market for Jetour.”
Fu Yong, CEO of Jetour Malaysia, added, “With the launch of local manufacturing operations, we are proud to offer high-quality vehicles assembled in Malaysia, in line with our ongoing commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.”
Since the official launch of its first product line in Malaysia, Jetour has seen rapid growth, expanding to over 20 branches across the country.
These CKD operations mark an important milestone in efforts to accelerate local procurement to meet increasing demand, shorten delivery times, and enhance customer satisfaction through added value for consumers in Malaysia.
Currently, the facility focuses on assembling the Dashing and VT9 models, with over 1,000 vehicles produced so far.
Deliveries of the locally assembled Dashing model began in June 2025, followed by the VT9 model in the near future.
Looking ahead, Jetour plans to invest approximately RM1.4 billion in Malaysia to support the launch of more locally assembled models and exports to neighboring countries in the ASEAN region.
Isuzu Malaysia has strengthened its position in the local pickup truck market, securing second place during the second quarter of this year with its D-Max model.
The increase in sales during this period propelled Isuzu Malaysia to achieve a market share of 16 percent, with 3,081 pickup trucks sold to date.
The popularity of the Isuzu D-Max is driven by high demand for the 1.9-liter engine model, which offers impressive power performance as well as greater fuel efficiency.
It is not surprising that the 1.9-liter variant accounted for over 85.8 percent of total D-Max sales. Among these, the 1.9-liter 4×4 Auto Premium variant was the best-selling model, offering the best value with its impressive features, comfort, and included safety specifications.
As a variant listed in the Malaysia Book of Records for the longest distance traveled on a single tank of fuel, the D-Max 1.9-liter 4×4 Auto Premium contributed to 18.6 percent of total sales.
According to Isuzu Malaysia’s CEO, Tomoyuki Yamaguchi, “The results achieved this year reaffirms the trend we have observed since last year when pick-up truck enthusiasts and passenger car converts alike have discovered the benefits of owning and driving these highly capable Isuzu D-Max trucks.
“We hope to continue appealing our product benefits in the second half of the year while ensuring positive experiences for our customers.”
Isuzu Malaysia offers up to nine variants of the Isuzu D-Max to choose from, starting with the 1.9-liter Low Ride 4×2 for rugged work to the X-Terrain variant, enabling customers to select the truck that best meets their individual needs while enjoying reliable and efficient performance.
Isuzu Malaysia’s Chief Operating Officer, Kenichi Kudo, stated, “Key efforts for the second half of the year will focus on improving the accessibility of our products by reaching out to potential customers beyond the perimeters of our outlets and offering them immersive experiences that highlight the key benefits of our products.”
The Custom Culture Art of Speed 2025 (AOS 2025) event wrapped up on July 27, attracting thousands of passionate fans and enthusiasts with an extraordinary display of customized vehicles from both local and international participants.
The event was further enlivened by the presence of several international guests, including:
Shige Suganuma, Hiro “Wildman” Ishii, and Hey Murakami from MOONEYES (Japan)
Brendon Vetuskey, Product Designer for Hot Wheels (USA)
Mark Hawwa from The Distinguished Gentlemen’s Ride (Australia)
and many more.
This year, AOS also showcased an iconic arch adorned with full LED displays, casting dynamic visuals and animations that reflect the spirit of AOS itself—full of creativity, culture, and innovation.
The Hot Wheels Collectors Convention Malaysia (HWCCM) made its triumphant return to Hall C, featuring a variety of exciting activities for fans and collectors of the diecast brand.
AOS 2025 made history with the launch of the first-ever left and right facing convention car collection in Southeast Asia.
Additionally, the event featured a vibrant array of car and motorcycle brands from both modern and classic eras, including:
A mega gathering of Santai Scooterist owners
The presence of clubs such as Alfa Romeo, K Car, and Porsche
A two-wheeler meetup and the Roda Rumble 2025 festival
The Beetle Battle program led by Denny Kusumah (VW Beetle Club Indonesia)
Not to be missed was the SoundCircus Takeover, which showcased several renowned artists, including Noh Salleh & Restore Iboe, Ruffedge, Budak Nakal Hujung Simpang, and many others.
AOS 2025 also announced two winners of the Best of Show awards for cars and motorcycles, who received travel packages to the MOONEYES Yokohama Hot Rod Festival 33 as honorary guests:
Proton Holdings Berhad has announced the establishment of its wholly-owned subsidiary, Proton International Corporation Sdn Bhd (PICSB), to spearhead efforts in expanding its international market presence.
Enmund Lim Meng, the former Director of Proton’s International Sales Division, has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of the new company.
PICSB will be responsible for expanding Proton’s export markets, with an aim to grow into global southern countries while overseeing and developing sales and marketing efforts in existing markets.
For the entirety of 2025, PICSB aims to achieve export sales reaching 6,000 units, with a target to exceed ten times that number by 2030.
Currently, Proton has exported 20,169 vehicles to 19 countries, including South Africa, Angola, Bangladesh, Bermuda, Brunei, Fiji, Ghana, Iraq, Kenya, Mauritius, Egypt, Mozambique, Nepal, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and Trinidad & Tobago.
The top three Proton models in terms of export units since 2020 are the Proton Saga (10,998 units), Proton X50 (3,968 units), and Proton X70 (3,316 units).
The warm reception for the Proton e.MAS 7 has propelled its sales figures, making it the third highest-selling model in exports this year.
Since the commencement of export activities to Nepal and Trinidad & Tobago, a total of 233 units have been shipped as of December 2024.
This model has maintained strong sales, with 916 units sold in May alone for both domestic and international markets, bringing the year-to-date (YTD) total sales to 3,632 units.
In a brief historical note, Proton began exporting to the Bangladeshi market in 1986, a year after its first car was launched.
By 1992, Proton had become the fastest-growing new car franchise in the UK, with annual sales reaching 15,000 units.
By the early 2000s, Proton models were present in 64 countries worldwide.
Introducing the smallest electric car produced by Honda: the Honda N-One e:.
With dimensions that place it within the kei car class, it replaces the Honda e, which ceased production in January of last year.
Here are some key facts you should know:
1. Honda’s second electric kei car
This is not the first ultra-compact electric car, as Honda previously launched the commercial EV N-Van e: last year.
The specifications of the N-One e: are expected to mimic those of the N-Van e:, featuring a single electric motor that drives the front wheels (64 hp).
2. Driving Range
Equipped with a 29.6 kWh battery pack, the N-Van e: can travel up to 245 km; however, when paired with the N-One e:, it has an estimated range of over 270 km based on WLTC data.
The N-Van e: also supports DC fast charging at 50 kW, allowing the battery to charge in 30 minutes or 4.5 hours using AC charging at 6.0 kW.
3. Nostalgic features from the 1960s
Honda employs the e:Daily Partner approach for the N-One e, offering an attractive exterior design along with a spacious cabin.
The N-One e: also provides the benefit of easy handling—evoking features from Honda’s classic kei car, the N360, of the 1960s and 70s.
4. Cabin space
The cabin of the N-One e: follows the Man Maximum Machine Minimum philosophy, showcasing a minimalist design.
It comes with an LCD cluster screen, a nine-inch central display, USB charging ports, a PRND selection button, and central climate controls, along with a two-spoke steering wheel similar to that of the N-Van e:.
Practicality is enhanced by a small tray on the dashboard, cup holders in the driver’s area and center console, as well as foldable rear seats to suit various needs.
5. Variations
Two variants are offered for the Japanese market: the e: L, which is more fully equipped, and the base e: G.
Both variants come standard with front and rear LED lights and an ADAS system (complete with cameras).
The base e: G features 14-inch steel rims with hub covers.
Its cabin appears more minimalist, as it includes only a simple audio system with Bluetooth support.
The e: L variant, on the other hand, is equipped with sporty 14-inch six-spoke aluminum rims and a cabin that includes the infotainment screen mentioned in point four.
6. Honda Access Accessories
As always, no Honda car offering would be complete without a wide array of accessories.
Honda Access provides a V2L adapter kit that offers up to 1,500W of power for emergency use.
A charging indication light module is also available, allowing owners to see the battery charge level from outside, even when the car is locked.
The Premium Style package adds decorative racing stripes to the hood, tailgate, sides of the car, and front grille.
7. Sales
Honda Japan will begin sales of the N-One e: starting this September.
Interestingly, this kei car will also make its official debut in the European market at the IAA event in Munich during the same month.
Castrol Malaysia has announced two new lubricant products under the Castrol CRB Turbomax brand: Castrol CRB Turbomax 10W-40 CK-4/E9 and Castrol CRB Turbomax 5W-40 CK-4/SN.
Both of these lubricants are specifically designed to meet the needs of commercial vehicles, ranging from heavy-duty trucks to light-duty vehicles.
Featuring Durashield™ technology, these new lubricants protect engines from heat, deposits, and friction, extending engine lifespan to ensure smooth operation even in challenging conditions.
Castrol CRB Turbomax 10W-40 CK-4/E9 is a synthetic technology engine oil suitable for high-speed four-stroke diesel engines and is compatible with diesel engines equipped with exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) systems.
Meanwhile, Castrol CRB Turbomax 5W-40 CK-4/SN is a fully synthetic oil designed for light commercial vehicles such as pickups, vans, and small trucks.
It also offers 3X protection (against heat, deposits, and friction) comparable to heavy-duty engine oils.
Performance tests indicate that Castrol CRB Turbomax 5W-40 CK-4/SN achieves 50% better protection against friction.
Both oils are also compatible with biodiesel, making them a more environmentally friendly fuel choice.
The world of supercars is set to be enlivened by the arrival of a new contender from yet another Chinese manufacturer, GWM.
A teaser image was uploaded by GWM Chairman Wei Jianjun on the social media platform Weibo during the 35th anniversary celebration of Great Wall Motor.
The supercar is still covered in black cloth, but we can see it is a genuine supercar based on its long, low, and wide dimensions.
At the front, distinct lines indicate the positioning of the headlights on the fender, along with an aggressive bumper opening.
The side view features additional cooling inlet openings, further confirming that this supercar will have a mid-engine configuration.
The official specifications of the vehicle are still under wraps, but GWM is expected to pair this supercar with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine featuring a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system.
This new engine unit made its debut at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show recently and has been developed entirely in-house by GWM.
According to GWM Chief Technology Officer Wu Huixiao, this first supercar has undergone a five-year development program.
He further stated that they are employing a high-performance approach while still offering a price point lower than that of competitors.
Huixiao also revealed that the supercar will be built on a carbon fiber monocoque chassis and is said to be “far superior to the Ferrari SF90 model.”
GWM’s first supercar is set to be officially unveiled by the end of this year, with a price tag of under 1 million yuan (approximately RM590,000).
MDua Motor Sdn Bhd recently launched the Moda Shifter 400X adventure scooter, designed for users of all backgrounds.
It is powered by a single-cylinder, SOHC 333 cc liquid-cooled engine equipped with a fuel injection system, capable of producing 26.8 hp at 7,500 rpm and a torque of 33.5 Nm at 5,500 rpm.
The suspension system of the Shifter 400X consists of telescopic forks at the front and twin gas shock absorbers at the rear.
Braking is handled by a single 276 mm rotor at the front wheel and a single 240 mm rotor at the rear, enhanced with ABS and Traction Control System (TCS).
Notable features include an adjustable windscreen, adaptive headlights, emergency stop lights, a smart keyless system, as well as a USB charging slot and a 12V power socket available in the front storage compartment.
Under the 775 mm seat, there is ample storage space to accommodate two helmets.
All information can be displayed on a 7-inch color TFT screen, which can also connect to smart devices via the Ride App.
Lastly, the Shifter 400X comes equipped with front and rear dash cameras.
For the local market, the 2025 Moda Shifter 400X is available in Ninja Black and Ultra White color options. The selling price starts from RM23,888, excluding taxes, registration, and insurance.
smart, known for its line of electric SUVs, has recently announced the arrival of the #5 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) variant for the Chinese market.
More commonly referred to as the smart #5 EHD (Electric Hybrid Drive), the #5 PHEV is said to achieve an impressive zero-emission driving range of 250 km, with a total driving range of up to 1,600 km.
It is powered by a plug-in hybrid system that includes a 1.5-liter turbo engine generating 161 hp, as well as an over 40 kWh LFP battery pack from CATL.
Fuel consumption is reported to be as low as 4.4 liters per 100 km.
The dimensions of this boxy SUV match those of the smart #5 electric vehicle version, but it weighs approximately 2,190 kg, making it lighter than the EV version, which weighs 2,450 kg.
More details will be revealed ahead of the official launch, which will be announced soon.
A few months ago, Isuzu announced that production of the electric D-Max EV pickup truck had begun at its factory in Thailand.
The truck is expected to hit the European market as early as 2026, carrying a surprisingly high price tag.
The Isuzu D-Max EV is priced at £59,995 (RM341,913), which is double the price of the diesel version of the D-Max, starting at £27,755 (RM158,176).
Furthermore, with a price of £62,495 (RM356,000) for the more premium variant, it is still considered expensive compared to the D-Max AT35 pickup, which comes loaded with various off-road accessories priced at £57,005 (RM325,000).
The Isuzu D-Max EV is powered by two electric motors, producing an output of 188 hp and 325 Nm, while still retaining the Rough Terrain Mode feature from the diesel model.
Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes just 10.1 seconds, with a maximum speed of only 129 km/h.
As a workhorse, the D-Max EV offers a payload capacity of 1,000 kg and can tow loads of up to 3.5 tons, matching the capabilities of the diesel pickup.
The 66.9 kWh battery pack allows for a driving range of just 263 km; however, it supports 50 kW DC fast charging, enabling a quick recharge from 20% to 80% in just one hour.
The Isuzu D-Max EV retains the ladder-frame chassis like the standard model, but the rear suspension has been adapted to a De-Dion setup for improved ride quality.
In 2022, Hyundai launched the affordable MPV Stargazer to compete with manufacturers like Toyota, Daihatsu, and Mitsubishi in the Indonesian market.
The futuristic design has now been updated for the 2025 model year, featuring a bolder appearance and modern amenities.
The new facelift version of the Stargazer is known as the Stargazer Cartenz, named after Cartenz Peak, the highest mountain in Indonesia.
Significant changes are evident at the front, with more traditional headlight units, LED daytime running lights shaped like fangs, a grille structure, and a larger opening in the front bumper.
The new longer hood structure eliminates the egg-like appearance of the previous Stargazer.
At the rear, the Stargazer Cartenz features a redesigned bumper and thinner LED lights.
The Cartenz X model includes unique characteristics such as higher roof rails, protective plastic cladding around the body, a more aggressive bumper, and shiny black rims.
The Stargazer’s cabin has also been updated, with a digital cluster screen and central display integrated into a single panel, along with separate climate control panels.
As standard, the Stargazer comes with a seven-seat configuration; however, buyers can opt for the Captain Seat configuration in the middle to convert it into a six-seater vehicle.
Other features include ventilated seats with electric adjustments, wireless charging, a Bose sound system, smart cruise control, and a blind spot monitoring system.
The Cartenz X model is equipped with Shift-by-Wire technology, eliminating the gear lever for a more spacious central console.
In terms of power, the Stargazer retains the 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine producing 113 hp and 144 Nm of torque, paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a CVT.
Compared to its predecessor, this facelift version has increased dimensions, with an additional 115 mm in length, while the wheelbase remains at 2,780 mm, and ground clearance is at 205 mm.
In Indonesia, Hyundai sells the Stargazer Cartenz starting at Rp 350,400,000 (RM 90,580), while the Stargazer Cartenz X starts at Rp 361,900,000 (RM 93,553).
Proton has officially launched the facelifted 2025 version of the B-segment SUV, the Proton X50, for the local market.
Unlike its predecessor, the 2025 X50 features a fresher look, a new engine, and significant changes to the cabin space.
Starting with the engine, the X50 now boasts a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine that generates 181 PS and 290 Nm of torque.
The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) allows it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.6 seconds.
The facelifted X50 is also reported to be 4.7 percent more fuel-efficient.
Notable exterior changes include new headlights and bumpers, redesigned taillights, new alloy wheels, and five available color options, including Teal Bayou Green.
The cabin layout has also been updated, resembling more closely that of the e.MAS 7.
It includes a separate digital cluster display, a 14.6-inch central screen that now supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a transmission lever on the steering column, wireless device charging, and voice command support in Malay.
Safety features have been enhanced with new functions such as a rear side radar system (RSRS), automatic parking assistance (APA) with a 360-degree HD camera, as well as a 180-degree transparent under-vehicle display.
For the local market, the 2025 Proton X50 is priced as follows:
Proton X50 Executive – RM89,800
Proton X50 Premium – RM101,800
Proton X50 Flagship – RM113,300
Proton also announced an exciting package featuring a cash rebate of RM4,000 for the first 10,000 customers, bringing the sale price of this facelifted X50 down to as low as RM85,800 for the Executive variant, RM97,800 for the Premium variant, and RM109,300 for the Flagship variant.
Additionally, five special packages are available for the first 10,000 customers, which include:
Pro-Warranty: A five-year warranty with unlimited mileage and free labor for six service visits.
Pro-Connect: A data package of 2GB per month for five years.
Pro-Trade-In: Trade-in support of up to RM2,000.
Pro-Finance: Interest rates as low as 2.35% per year for a five-year financing period, or 2.38% per year for a seven-year period.
Welcome the newest addition to the BYD electric vehicle family, the BYD Atto 2 2025, which has just been launched for the Malaysian market.
Here are some key facts you need to know:
1. Dimensions
The Atto 2 measures 4,310 mm in length, 1,830 mm in width, and 1,675 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,620 mm.
Compared to the Dolphin, the Atto 2 is significantly larger in dimensions but has a wheelbase that is 80 mm shorter.
When compared to the Atto 3, the Atto 2 is 145 mm shorter and has a wheelbase that is 100 mm less, but it is slightly taller (+60 mm).
2. Powertrain
The Atto 2 is powered by a single front-wheel-drive electric motor producing 174 hp and 290 Nm of torque.
It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.9 seconds.
3. Range
With a battery pack capacity of 51.13 kWh, the Atto 2 can travel up to 410 km on a full charge (NEDC data).
It supports AC charging at 7 kW and DC fast charging at 82 kW, allowing for a charge from 30-80% in just 30 minutes.
4. Features
On the exterior, the Atto 2 features LED headlights and taillights, 17-inch alloy wheels, a sporty front bumper, a rear roof spoiler, and a two-tone color option.
Inside the cabin, it includes an 8.8-inch digital cluster screen, a 12.8-inch rotating central screen, wireless smartphone charging, and adjustable ventilated front seats.
The cargo space can reach up to 1,320 liters when the second-row seats are folded down.
Safety features include six airbags, a 360-degree surround monitoring system, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
5. Price
For the Malaysian market, the BYD Atto 2 will be available in three colors: Ski White, Breeze Green, and Harbour Grey.
The price starts at RM100,000. Each purchase comes with a six-year manufacturer’s warranty or a mileage limit of 160,000 km, as well as an 8-year or 160,000 km warranty on the high-voltage battery, and an 8-year or 150,000 km warranty on the drive unit.
For the first 800 customers, BYD Malaysia is offering a hassle-free ownership package worth RM13,500 with no monthly installments for the first six months through the Sime Motors panel bank financing package.
Additionally, there are various charging package options available:
A free wall charger for landed homeowners.
The Sime Platinum 4+ by Power Up for high-rise residents, which includes a 12-month subscription, 4 mobile charges per month, 2 car washes per month, and 2 free roadside assistance services per year.
Malaysia’s Leading Automotive News | ENGEAR ENGLISH
