BMW Motorrad Malaysia has announced the arrival of the sports-tourer motorcycle for the local market, the BMW R 1300 RT 2025, with a starting price of RM167,000.
This machine is powered by a 1,300 cc twin-cylinder boxer engine that produces 145 hp at 7,750 rpm and a torque of 149 Nm at 6,500 rpm.
The power is transmitted to the rear wheel through a six-speed gearbox and a drive shaft system.
Riders can take advantage of the Automatic Shift Assist (ASA) system for clutchless gear changes in both manual and fully automatic modes.
The suspension system consists of an EVO Telelever for the front axle with a wheel travel of 149 mm and an EVO Paralever for the rear axle with a wheel travel of 158 mm, complete with electronic adjustment.
This machine is also equipped with Dynamic Chassis Adaptation (DCA) that offers two riding positions for comfort and dynamic handling, as well as three riding modes (Rain, Road, Eco).
Other riding assistance features include dynamic traction control (DTC), engine drag torque control (MSR), dynamic brake control (DBC), Integral ABS Pro, active cruise control (ACC), forward collision warning (FCW), and lane departure warning (SWW).
All important information is displayed via a 10.25-inch TFT screen, complete with navigation functions and active media content, which can be integrated through the Connected BMW Motorrad app.
The BMW R 1300 RT is also equipped with a four-channel pro audio system featuring premium components such as tweeters, mid-range speakers, and woofers.
Other features include LED headlights with adaptive light functions, side storage compartments with a capacity of 27 liters each (or an optional 33 liters), and a top case with a capacity of 39 liters (or an optional 54 liters).
Each case can be opened using a central locking system with the aid of an internal lighting system.
The left storage compartment is equipped with a USB Type-C charging port, while the 54-liter case features a backrest with heating function for passenger comfort.
Five color variants are available for the Malaysian market, with the following prices:
Who would have thought that the off-road segment previously dominated by Japanese brands, is now being penetrated by the latest model from a Chinese manufacturer?
However, unlike typical off-road SUVs that come with diesel engines, the manufacturer from the mainland focuses on hybrid and plug-in hybrid engines.
The advantages? Smaller displacement engines that contribute to lower road taxes, and significantly more power and capability for tackling difficult terrains.
One of the manufacturers offering modern off-road solutions is GWM, through its full-size SUV, the Tank 500 HEV.
So, if you’re starting to feel bored with Japanese-made models, why not give the Tank 500 off-road SUV a try, which is now officially available in Malaysia?
Recently, we were invited by GWM Malaysia to test drive this luxury hybrid SUV from Bandar Elmina to Penang, and here are our initial impressions of the Tank 500 HEV:
Imposing Dimensions
On the road, the Tank 500 HEV resembles a group of foreign delegates visiting Malaysia, especially when driven in a convoy.
Unlike the Tank 300, which has a retro SUV appearance, the Tank 500 presents a more modern and sleek image with a body design free of extraneous lines.
When compared to its competitor (what else but the Land Cruiser?), the Tank 500 is slightly smaller in dimensions.
However, it still measures over five meters in length, thanks to the full-size spare tire compartment at the rear.
The rear door design is also non-typical for SUVs on the market, featuring side hinges with a soft close function.
The writer had no trouble acclimating to the aesthetics of this SUV, though it would be more visually appealing if most of the chrome elements were toned down.
Cabin Space with Old-School Elements
Frankly speaking, the writer is not a fan of dashboard layouts that prioritize cramming all functions into a display screen.
So, upon entering the Tank 500’s cabin, I was relieved to find that most functions can still be operated with physical buttons.
In addition to the air conditioning control buttons, there are also essential function buttons located on the center console, complete with a large gear knob.
In front of the driver, there’s a 12.3-inch display screen and a head-up display, while the center screen measures 14.6 inches with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.
The front seats are wrapped in Nappa leather and come equipped with various comfort features (ventilation, massage, electronic adjustments).
To enhance the acoustic experience, the Tank 500 is equipped with an Infinity audio system featuring 12 speakers for perfectly tuned music.
Comfort in exiting the cabin is aided by side steps that automatically extend when the door is opened.
Passenger comfort is further enhanced by a three-zone automatic air conditioning system. Rear passengers enjoy a separate control panel along with four air vents to ensure cool air reaches them effectively.
One of my favorite features? The analog clock beneath the infotainment screen. It’s a small touch that elevates the cabin atmosphere, making it feel like a more premium vehicle.
The wood finishes in several areas contribute to a more luxurious experience for an SUV priced below RM400,000.
Passenger Experience
One aspect that enhances comfort during the journey in the Tank 500 is the NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) level, which is commendable for a ladder-frame SUV.
At moderately high cruising speeds, we found the cabin to be relatively quiet.
External wind noise is minimal, and there is less noise coming from the wheel arches.
As a passenger, I found that the Tank 500 offers ample head and legroom without making occupants feel cramped.
What about the third-row seating? I believe it is more suitable for children, or you can fold it down to access the 795-liter cargo space, which expands to 1,498 liters when the second-row seats are also folded down.
Smooth and Powerful Driving Experience, but…
As I took hold of the steering wheel, a few aspects challenged my initial perceptions.
First, the Tank 500 HEV is indeed stable and comfortable, even when driven at speeds exceeding the national limit on the highway.
Second, body control is predictable, despite the absence of sophisticated suspension.
Third, although this SUV is heavy, it does not feel sluggish.
The Tank 500 comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four hybrid engine (HEV).
On paper, the Tank 500 produces 346 PS and 648 Nm of torque, with power delivered to a four-wheel drive (4WD) system via a nine-speed hybrid automatic transmission (9HAT).
However, there is one important thing to note.
Unlike the HEV system in the Haval H6, which is designed for fuel efficiency, the hybrid setup in the Tank 500 acts more as a power enhancer to ensure this 2.5-ton vehicle moves smoothly.
There is no issue in getting moving from a standstill, but the Tank 500 feels somewhat lacking in power when I want that extra push to overtake heavy vehicles ahead.
Interestingly, that extra power tends to appear at the wrong moments—when the SUV is cruising serenely at speeds above the national limit.
I was not alone in noticing this; several other media colleagues shared similar sentiments.
It is not a major issue, but I would prefer if that additional power assistance kicked in at the right time.
On average, with a mixed driving pattern on the highway, we managed to record a fuel consumption rate of around 11.5 liters per 100 km.
Regarding handling, there are areas for improvement.
One is the steering response, and the second is the braking system, which at times makes it difficult for me to gauge the required braking biting point.
The Tank 500 HEV comes standard with a double-wishbone suspension in the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, without any sophisticated electronic adjustments.
Even with conventional settings, the suspension has been well-tuned for comfort and confidence over various road surfaces.
However, at times, the characteristics of a ladder-frame SUV are still noticeable, especially at lower speeds. This is something difficult to avoid, particularly for an SUV with this type of construction.
Hybrid SUV Ready for Off-Road Driving
Despite its various luxurious features, GWM does not shy away from equipping this SUV with multiple useful features and functionalities for off-road terrains.
These features include a low-range gearbox, three differential locks (front, center, and rear), tank-turn functionality, and off-road cruise control.
It is also capable of wading through water up to 800 mm deep. Perhaps one day we will share our off-road driving experience in the Tank 500.
Safety Features
Additionally, the Tank 500 is equipped with a host of advanced safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control (ACC), lane-keeping assistance, lane departure warning, traffic crossing warning, blind spot monitoring, and automatic parking systems.
There are also six airbags and two ISOFIX anchors for child seats.
The most useful feature for this full-size SUV is undoubtedly the 360-degree surround-view camera system, complete with a bonnet transparency function.
Conclusion
The GWM Tank 500 could be an alternative for those looking to stand out from the existing market options.
Based on our brief two-day drive, it is challenging to fully explore the potential of this SUV.
However, with its specifications and comprehensive manufacturer warranty, along with a selling price below RM350,000, the GWM Tank 500 is capable of delivering an experience you wouldn’t expect from a Chinese manufacturer in the past.
This is not a substandard product to scoff at. It is a GWM Tank 500.
Specifications for GWM Tank 500 HEV (RM328,000)
Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four (244 PS/380 Nm)
Electric Motor: 106 PS/268 Nm
Total Power: 346 PS/648 Nm
Transmission: Nine-speed automatic
Drivetrain: Four-wheel drive
Battery Pack: Lithium-ion, 1.67 kWh
Dimensions: 5,078 mm x 1,934 mm x 1,905 mm
Wheelbase: 2,850 mm
Ground Clearance: 224 mm
Suspension: Front double-wishbone / rear multi-link
Maextro, the luxury sedan manufacturer resulting from the collaboration between Huawei and JAC, has successfully secured 3,600 unit orders for its ultra-luxury sedan model S800 in just one week.
With a selling price ranging from 708,000 yuan to 1,018,000 yuan (RM418,000 to RM600,000), the Maextro S800 has certainly captured attention, becoming an alternative to competitors such as the Maybach S-Class and Yangwang U7.
The Maextro S800 features relatively large dimensions, measuring 5,480 mm in length, 2,000 mm in width, 1,536 mm in height, and having a wheelbase of 3,370 mm.
In the Chinese market, the S800 is available in an EV variant equipped with two electric motors producing 523 hp and a 95 kWh battery pack that offers a driving range of 702 km (according to CLTC data).
Additionally, there is an EREV version of the S800 with the option of two or up to three electric motors (825 hp) paired with a 1.5-liter engine producing 154 hp.
The 65 kWh battery pack allows this sedan to operate for up to 400 km without using a drop of gasoline.
This sedan also offers the option of side cameras to replace side mirrors, along with a rear-wheel steering system.
The cabin of the S800 provides up to three displays ranging from 15.6 to 16 inches, a head-up display, a 2,920 W audio system with 43 speakers, and a passenger window tinting function that can be controlled by hand signals.
Depending on the specifications, buyers can choose the S800 in a five-seat configuration or a more luxurious four-seat variant.
Leapmotor Malaysia has updated the specifications of the Leapmotor C10 electric SUV for the 2025 model year.
For this latest offering, the Leapmotor C10 has been enhanced with an 11 kW AC charging capability, replacing the previous 6.6 kW unit.
This improvement allows the battery charging time (from 30% to 80% State of Charge) to be shortened from six hours to just four hours.
Other features include a real-time tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), a motorized tire pump kit, and black upholstery replacing the Midnight Aurora color trim in the cabin.
For the Glazed Green model, the Criollo Brown cabin finish has been replaced with Camel Brown.
The cabin of the Leapmotor C10 still utilizes OEKO-Tex Standard 100® certified baby-friendly silicone textile upholstery.
In terms of specifications, the Leapmotor C10 continues to be powered by a 214 hp electric motor and a 69.9 kWh battery pack, offering a range of 424 km (according to WLTP data).
The selling price has also been updated, with the 2025 Leapmotor C10 available for as low as RM125,000, making it cheaper than the previous offering (from RM159,000).
Each model comes with a comprehensive six-year warranty (four-year + an additional two-year warranty extension) or a mileage limit of 150,000 km, as well as an eight-year battery warranty or a mileage limit of 160,000 km, whichever comes first.
The Petaling Jaya District Police Headquarters conducted a Motorcycle Operation yesterday (June 11) at KM 28.4 of the Federal Highway heading towards Kuala Lumpur.
The operation aimed to reduce the rate of road accidents involving motorcyclists on that route.
The operation also saw the use of drones to detect offenders, in collaboration with the Bukit Aman Air Operations Force (PGU).
It was reported that a total of 47 summonses were issued for various offenses under the Road Transport Act (APJ) 1987 and LN167/59.
Additionally, 16 summonses were issued for offenses recorded by the Drone Unit.
Among the offenses included were defective vehicle accessories, lack of a driving license, not wearing a helmet, ignoring traffic signals, expired road tax, using communication devices while driving, not wearing a seatbelt, absence of brake lights/third brake light, and obstructing traffic.
Through a post on Facebook, the Petaling Jaya Police informed that the Motorcycle Operation received positive feedback from the local community and will be continued in the future.
Meanwhile, Petaling Jaya District Police Chief ACP Shahrulnizam Ja’afar told Bernama that summonses will still be sent to offenders under POL 170A for further action, even if they are not detained at the operation site.
Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) is celebrating its 20th anniversary in Malaysia this year.
In conjunction with this milestone, MMM has announced the launch of the upgraded Triton Athlete pickup model, with a starting price of RM159,980.
Unique features of the current Triton Athlete include a stylish front bumper, a sporty bar on the truck bed, tailgate opening assistance, and distinctive decorative patterns.
Additionally, MMM is offering an exclusive, limited-time promotion for Triton Athlete buyers, which includes rewards of up to RM8,000 or a free five-year maintenance package, as well as a five-year unlimited mileage warranty.
Customers can also enjoy interest rates as low as 0.6 percent for Triton Athlete financing through Maybank or Public Bank.
According to MMM CEO Shinya Ikeda, “We are extremely grateful for the trust and loyalty shown by the people of Malaysia. After nearly two decades, the Triton continues to be a symbol of strength, trust, and reliability among Malaysian drivers, with nearly 120,000 units sold.
“For years, the Triton has built a reputation as a vehicle that delivers excellent performance both on the road and on challenging terrain.
“This enhanced Triton Athlete signifies our commitment to meet the evolving needs of our customers, and we are proud to introduce this model as part of our 20th anniversary celebration,” he further stated.
Furthermore, starting June 16, MMM will host a Scratch & Win contest offering exciting prizes, including iPhone 16, iPad, iPod, Seiko watches, and THULE products.
Customers who book a new Triton or Xpander model at any authorized MMM dealership will be eligible to participate in this contest and will receive a card to scratch for their chance to win.
UMW Toyota and Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia have announced a change in the Vios Challenge race format in conjunction with the AUTOBACS Super GT Malaysia event, which will take place from June 26-28.
Unlike the usual 30-minute sprint race format, this time the Vios Challenge will adopt a one-hour endurance race format covering the full distance of the Sepang International Circuit, which is 5.543 km long.
The Vios Challenge 2025 will continue to feature three classes of racing: Super Sporting, Sporting, and Rookie.
This means that in the second race of this season, all five Rookie class drivers will showcase their talents on the international stage for the first time.
To date, 22 drivers have graduated from the Toyota Gazoo Racing Young Talent Development Program since its launch in 2021.
Of that number, more than 10 drivers are currently competing at the local level, and four drivers have already achieved victories and championship titles at the international level.
According to Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor, “Our participation as the Main Sponsor reflects UMWT’s ongoing commitment to elevate motorsports in Malaysia.
“The Vios Challenge has proven to be a stepping stone for local talents, marking a significant achievement where our drivers can compete on the same platform as international teams in Super GT.
“The Super GT Malaysia Festival is not just a competitive stage; it is a launchpad that proudly places the name of Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia on the map of global motorsports and shows that Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia is here, actively moving forward and ready to grow.”
He further stated that there are plans to establish the Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia (TGRMY) manufacturer team to participate in regional racing events to strengthen Malaysia’s presence in motorsports.
Returning to the Super GT race, this is the only race round held outside Japan for the 2025 Super GT calendar.
Visitors can witness the action of the GT500 class GR Supra from the Toyota team, including the GR Supra TOM’s, which previously won the opening round in Okayama, and the GR Supra KeePer CERUMO, which won the second round at Fuji Speedway.
Additionally, there will be an exhibition of a lineup of GR models, including the GR Supra, GR Yaris, GR Corolla, GR86, as well as Corolla GR Sport and Corolla Cross GR Sport HEV.
On the same dates, the Sepang Circuit will host the inaugural race of the Toyota GR86 Cup Malaysia as a support race for Super GT.
Not only that, visitors to the Super GT Malaysia Festival will also have the opportunity to participate in Japanese cultural and food events, namely Nihon Matsuri, as well as enjoy the post-race concert GT Live!, featuring a variety of renowned artists.
Among them are the trio Tenxi, Naykilla & Jemsii (TNJ), KLP48, Fareed K-Clique, Sabhi Saddi, and Kaka Azraff.
Honda Malaysia recently announced a recall campaign involving 87,490 vehicles for the replacement of fuel pump components.
This latest campaign is a precautionary measure against any potential damage to these components.
Out of the total, 84,073 units are affected by an issue with the fuel pump impeller that may expand after being submerged in fuel for an extended period.
This condition could prevent the vehicle from starting or may cause the engine to stop while driving.
Below is a list of affected models:
Accord (2013-2017)
BR-V (2017-2018)
City (2014-2019)
City Hybrid (2018-2019)
Civic (2017-2018)
CR-V (2018-2020)
Jazz (2015-2020)
Jazz Hybrid (2018)
HR-V (2015-2018)
Odyssey (2017-2019)
Additionally, 3,417 units of the Civic (2023-2024 model) and CR-V (2024) are affected by an issue with high-pressure fuel pumps.
According to Honda, these components may crack due to prolonged use and excessive pressure, which could lead to fuel leaks and the smell of petrol during driving or idling.
The cost of replacing the affected components will be fully covered by Honda Malaysia, with parts available progressively.
Owners affected will be notified via a notification letter, and customers can also check whether their vehicles are involved in the recall through the Honda Touch app.
Honda Malaysia urges all affected customers to contact any authorized Honda dealer to make an appointment as soon as they receive the notification.
Currently, no incidents of injury or accidents related to this issue have been reported in Malaysia.
Bernama reports that the government is drafting a new policy, including the mandatory implementation of speed limiters for heavy vehicles, as part of efforts to strengthen road safety measures.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke stated that the policy is being thoroughly reviewed, including mechanisms to eliminate any potential loopholes when it is enforced.
“The government will not stop in its efforts to enhance road safety policies. We are committed to protecting road users, especially from the threats posed by irresponsible drivers and heavy vehicles that do not meet established safety standards,” he said in a Facebook post.
Yesterday, the nation was shocked by an accident that claimed the lives of 15 students from Sultan Idris Education University (UPSI) when a chartered bus traveling from Jertih, Terengganu to Tanjung Malim, Perak overturned after colliding with a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) on the East-West Highway near Banding Lake, Gerik.
The tragedy also resulted in 33 others being injured, including the bus driver and conductor, as well as the driver and three passengers of the Perodua Alza MPV.
In 1959, Volvo made history by introducing the modern three-point seatbelt, a technology that has proven to save over a million lives.
Now, in 2025, Volvo is set to make history once again with the introduction of a new innovation: the multi-adaptive seatbelt, designed to further enhance user safety.
This first-of-its-kind feature will be showcased in the Volvo EX60, which is slated for launch in 2026.
What you need to know about Volvo’s latest innovation:
The system utilizes data from various sensors (external, internal, accident) to analyze factors such as impact direction and speed in real-time within the blink of an eye.
Additionally, the system assesses individual profiles based on height, weight, body shape, and seating position. This information is shared with the seatbelt system to select the most appropriate settings.
In unexpected situations, larger passengers will receive a higher seatbelt load setting to reduce the risk of head injuries. Conversely, in minor collision scenarios, smaller passengers will receive a lower seatbelt load to mitigate the chance of rib fractures.
The modern seatbelt system employs load limiters to control the impact force on the human body during a collision.
As a result, Volvo is increasing the load limit profile from three in the existing system to eleven, allowing for optimized protection based on varying scenarios and individual factors.
The system can also be updated through over-the-air (OTA) software updates.
Based on the data gathered, vehicles will become smarter in understanding passengers, new scenarios, and crafting more accurate response strategies.
This latest innovation has been tested and developed at the Volvo Cars Safety Centre, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.
There, Volvo safety engineers can recreate almost all types of road accidents and conduct tests that exceed official regulatory requirements.
The facility plays a crucial role in maintaining Volvo Cars’ position as a leader in automotive safety.
Proton has officially launched its first electric vehicle, the e.MAS 7, in the export market of Port of Spain, the capital of Trinidad and Tobago, distributed by ANSA Motors.
This country marks the second international market for the Proton e.MAS 7, just three months after its inaugural launch in Nepal.
ANSA Motors has been the official dealer for Proton vehicles in Trinidad and Tobago since 2013.
Coinciding with this launch, ANSA Motors has also opened a new electric vehicle showroom located in The City of Grand Bazaar.
The state-of-the-art facility is expected to provide a comprehensive experience for customers to explore, understand, and receive specialized support for Proton’s electric vehicle models.
The Proton e.MAS 7 is available in a Premium specification, featuring an electric motor with a power output of 214 hp and 320 Nm of torque, along with a 60.22 kWh Aegis Short Blade battery pack, allowing for a driving range of up to 410 km (WLTP data).
Since entering this market last year, Proton has successfully sold a total of 481 units of cars, including 271 units of the Proton X50, 141 units of the Proton X90, and 44 units of the Proton Saga.
According to Edmund Lim Meng Thong, Director of International Sales Division at Proton, “The journey of Proton with the e.MAS 7 into the Trinidad market is a significant milestone for Proton and reflects our commitment to lead the acceptance of electric vehicles in the country.”
Among the new export markets Proton is expected to enter by the end of this year are Mauritius and Singapore.
Porsche has recently stunned the world with the unveiling of the 963 RSP, a street-legal version of the Porsche 963 LMDh race car.
The Porsche 963 RSP is a one-off unit, where “RSP” actually stands for Roger S. Penske.
Yes, he is a former racer and the owner of the racing team Team Penske, which has won championships in various prestigious competitions, including IndyCar, IMSA, and the FIA World Endurance Championship.
His name was chosen to honor his contributions to enhancing the Porsche brand.
The idea to create the 963 RSP came from Timo Resch, President and CEO of Porsche Cars North America, who drew inspiration from the legendary 917 race car.
To make it suitable for use on public roads, several modifications were made to the 963 RSP.
These include changes to various body panels, the addition of fender vents, a modified rear wing, and the installation of turn signals, brake lights, and a horn.
All four corners are fitted with 18-inch OZ wheels wrapped in Michelin tires.
The ground clearance has also been slightly raised, aided by a softer suspension setup thanks to the use of adjustable Multimatic DSSV dampers.
The exterior of this machine is coated in a special Martini Silver color, highlighted with satin black accents.
The cabin of the 963 RSP has also been adjusted for greater comfort on the road.
The carbon fiber race seats have been directly taken from the racing machine but have been upholstered by hand and feature real padding, while the entire cabin is wrapped in tan leather and Alcantara.
The steering wheel and door panels are also wrapped in leather.
Additionally, there is a cup holder produced using 3D printing, and a special compartment on the driver’s side for storing a helmet or a special laptop that controls the car’s software.
Finally, there is a plaque on the door displaying the chassis number along with the date and location of assembly.
The Porsche 963 RSP is powered by a 4.6-liter hybrid V8 engine paired with a seven-speed sequential Xtrac transmission taken directly from the actual race car.
However, a remapping has been performed on the electric motor unit and the motor generator (MGU) to ensure smoother power delivery.
As standard, the 963 RSP can produce 680 horsepower.
As a finishing touch, Porsche has also created a custom carbon helmet along with a Snap-On tool set featuring leather-wrapped handles.
Although described as a street-legal machine, the Porsche 963 RSP has only received permission from the French government to be driven in certain events.
According to Autocar, the cost to build a Porsche 963 RSP is around €5 million (approximately RM24 million).
While other manufacturers have begun to neglect the sedan segment, there are still some who believe that there is a demand for such models.
One of these is Geely, which has introduced a new sedan model, the Galaxy A7.
This D-segment sedan, which will challenge the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, is offered exclusively in a plug-in hybrid version that boasts a driving range of up to 2,100 km.
The Galaxy A7 features a PHEV setup that consists of a 1.5-liter engine, an electric motor, and a battery pack, with Geely claiming a fuel consumption rate as low as 2 liters per 100 km.
Several local media reports suggest that Geely will provide the Galaxy A7 with various LFP (lithium-iron phosphate) battery pack options, offering a zero-emission range of up to 120 km.
In terms of dimensions, the Galaxy A7 measures 4,918 mm in length, 1,905 mm in width, and 1,495 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,845 mm.
The exterior design of the A7, particularly the front, somewhat resembles that of the facelifted Proton Perdana that was introduced in 2016.
The headlight housing is more streamlined, contrasting with the rear units that feature more complex graphics.
As standard, the Galaxy A7 will be available with wheel sizes ranging from 17 to 19 inches.
The cabin space features a minimalist dashboard layout, highlighted by a large cluster display and infotainment screen, accompanied by physical control buttons on the center console.
This PHEV sedan is set to be officially launched this year, with an estimated selling price of around RMB 100,000 (RM 58,801), significantly cheaper than the Camry, which is priced at RMB 179,800 (RM 105,725).
Will this sedan emerge as a potential replacement for the Proton Perdana in the future?
Here it is: the new generation of the popular kei car, the Daihatsu Move, which was supposed to be launched two years ago.
However, the launch was delayed due to a safety scandal involving the brand.
The 2025 Daihatsu Move is equipped with a 658 cc three-cylinder engine, available in two variants.
The naturally aspirated (NA) unit generates 51 hp at 6,900 rpm and 60 Nm of torque at 3,600 rpm, while the turbocharged unit produces 63 hp at 6,400 rpm and 100 Nm of torque at 3,600 rpm.
Unfortunately, there is no manual transmission option available; buyers can only choose the CVT gearbox, but with options for either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive (AWD).
In terms of dimensions, the Move retains a length of 3,395 mm, but the wheelbase is now 5 mm longer at 2,460 mm.
It also now uses the DNGA platform (the same platform as the Hijet and Atrai), featuring a more modern and practical exterior design.
For instance, it has a neater headlight unit and grille, a sportier front bumper, and sliding rear passenger doors.
At the rear, the taillight housing is now smaller in size.
Inside the cabin, features include analog gauges with a MID screen in the center, a choice of 7, 9, or 10-inch infotainment screen, climate control with a digital screen, a wireless device charging slot, and several small storage compartments.
In Japan, buyers can choose from the Dandy Sport or Noble Chic exterior packages, as well as the Move RS variant (turbo engine) which adds a sport suspension package and 15-inch wheel designs.
The selling price starts from ¥1,358,500 (RM39,919) to ¥2,044,000 (RM60,108).
Unpleasant news for fans of the Civic Type R hot hatch in the European market.
Honda has decided to discontinue offering this model due to its failure to comply with stricter Euro standards.
However, as a final tribute, Honda has launched the Civic Type R Ultimate Edition, with only 40 units available.
Each of these high-performance vehicles is painted in Championship White, featuring red stripes on the hood and sides, a black roof, and a carbon fiber rear spoiler.
Additionally, there are Type R logo puddle lights, carbon fiber trim on the door sills and center console, and ambient lighting in the door panels, cup holders, footwell, and under the seats.
The 40 owners of this special model will also receive a gift box containing a numbered emblem and a carbon fiber keyring.
There are no changes in terms of mechanics, as the Civic Type R still retains its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, producing 325 hp and 420 Nm of torque.
With a six-speed manual transmission, this power is sent to the front wheels, enabling acceleration from 0-100 km/h in just 5.4 seconds.
Pricing details have not yet been disclosed, but with its status as a limited edition model, it is expected to be more expensive than the current Civic Type R, which costs £51,905 (RM297,938).
In addition to the AMG GT 63 4MATIC+ Coupe, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has also launched the SL 63 S E Performance roadster, priced at RM2,168,888.
This marks the fifth model to feature AMG’s E Performance hybrid technology, paired with a 4.0-liter V8 engine that produces a total output of 816 hp and 1,420 Nm of torque.
The acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in just 2.9 seconds, and it can reach a top speed of 317 km/h.
The 204 hp electric motor positioned on the rear axle is powered by a 6.1 kWh battery.
With its PHEV system, the roadster can travel up to 13 km without consuming a drop of petrol. It also includes features such as an energy recovery system and single-pedal driving capability.
There are up to eight driving programs available through the AMG Dynamic Select system, including Electric, Battery Hold, Comfort, Smoothness, Sport, Sport+, Race, and Individual.
Handling is enhanced by the AMG Active Ride Control suspension, AMG Aerodynamics Package, AMG composite ceramic brake system, adaptive rear spoiler, and active rear-axle steering.
On the exterior, the SL 63 AMG roadster is equipped with Digital Light headlamps, AMG Night Package II, an Exterior Carbon Package, 21-inch AMG cross-spoke wheels, and carbon fiber side mirror housings.
Inside, the SL 63 AMG cabin features a 2+2 seating configuration with Nappa leather and Microcut microfiber upholstery, an AMG Performance steering wheel, a display screen with AMG-themed menus, and an Airscarf function specifically designed for convertible models.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has launched the high-performance model, the 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 4MATIC+ Coupé, for the local market, with a price tag of RM1,882,888.
It is powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that produces 585 hp and 800 Nm of torque, paired with a Speedshift MCT 9G transmission.
The vehicle accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds, reaching a top speed of 315 km/h.
The 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system offers both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive modes with a 50:50 power distribution ratio.
Additionally, the AMG GT 63 Coupé features AMG Active Ride Control suspension, AMG composite brakes, and an active steering system for the rear axle.
Exterior highlights include the AMG radiator grille, Digital Light headlamp units, an active rear spoiler, LED taillights, a diffuser, AMG Exterior Carbon package, AMG Night package, and 21-inch AMG cross-spoke wheels.
Driving dynamics are enhanced by the active aerodynamics system, Airpanel, which not only contributes to driving stability at high speeds but also helps cool vital components.
Inside the cabin, the AMG GT 63 Coupé offers a 2+2 seating configuration, featuring an AMG steering wheel, a digital cluster display, an 11.9-inch central screen, a head-up display, and special AMG menus including:
AMG Performance: displays essential vehicle information
AMG Track Pace: logs specific data for track use
AMG Dynamics: provides six driving modes including Comfort, Sport, Slippery, Sport+, Race, and Individual.
Did you know that Volkswagen actually has a special product that can boost the company’s revenue and profits?
It’s not the Volkswagen Golf, nor the Volkswagen Polo; instead, it’s the currywurst sausage!
According to a report by Autocar, Volkswagen will offer this sausage in a microwave-ready version at several major supermarkets starting in June 2025 in northern and eastern Germany.
The currywurst sausage has been produced since 1973, initially served only in factory canteens.
However, the popularity of the sausage eventually penetrated the German market before it began being sold in 11 countries worldwide.
It also holds the same status as Volkswagen automotive components (with code number 199 398 500 A) under the Volkswagen Originalteil (Volkswagen Original Part) brand.
Growing popularity has led to an increase in sausage production each year.
In 2015 alone, VW’s factory produced 7.2 million sausages, making it the most manufactured product compared to other VW automotive components.
In 2024, Volkswagen successfully sold 8.6 million of these sausages, surpassing the total vehicle sales (including commercial vehicles) of VW worldwide, which amounted to 5.2 million units.
Interestingly, Volkswagen had previously considered replacing the sausage with a plant-based version, but this plan faced strong opposition from employees.
Once a popular choice, manual transmission passenger cars are now on the brink of extinction.
In the United States, Nissan has ceased sales of the most affordable Versa (Almera) variant, which is also the last model on the market equipped with a five-speed manual transmission.
In an official statement provided to Motor1, Nissan confirmed that “production of the manual Versa S variant will be discontinued, while other variants will continue to be sold.”
For reference, the Nissan Versa S (manual version) starts at a price of $18,330 (RM77,902), while the CVT version is priced at $20,130 (RM85,553).
Despite the Versa’s popularity in that market, the manual variant accounts for less than five percent of the total sales of the model.
The U.S. market still offers new models with six-speed manual transmission options, primarily consisting of high-performance models such as the BMW M2, Honda Civic Type R, Hyundai Elantra N, Porsche 911, and the Toyota Gazoo Racing lineup (GR86, GR Corolla, GR Supra).
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