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

Four-time GR GT Cup champion shines at 2025 Vios Challenge

The opening round of the Vios Challenge 2025 concluded last weekend, showcasing intense competition between young drivers and veteran racers.

This year’s race featured 36 participants, including entries from Thailand and Singapore, competing across three main classes: Super Sporting, Sporting, and Rookie.

Among the highlights of the Vios Challenge 2025 was the debut of four-time GR GT Cup champion Taj Izrin in the Sporting class.

Representing Saksama Motorsports, Taj Izrin delivered an outstanding performance, securing two podium finishes — third place in Race 1 and second place in Race 2.

Meanwhile, in the Rookie Class, simulator driver Ian James claimed the top spot, leaving kart racer Aydan Khaliq more than 13 seconds behind.

Genevieve Ooi, the only female driver in the Rookie Class, achieved third place in the second day of racing.

Aydan was the only Rookie driver to maintain a podium position on both race days.

It is noteworthy that the Rookie racing class is designated for young drivers under the Young Talent Development Program by Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia.

Below is the list of winners for both races that took place over the weekend:

Race 1 (Round 1)

Super Sporting Class

  1. Ady Rahimy (Laser Motor Racing)
  2. Freddie Ang (Telagamas Toyota)
  3. Nabil Azlan (Wheelcorp)

Sporting Class

  1. Adam Mikhail (G-Mart Motorsport)
  2. Jwan Hii (Hong Huat X Armada KK Racing)
  3. Taj Izrin Aiman (Saksama Motorsports)

Rookie Class

  1. Harkiesh Geeva
  2. Aydan Khaliq
  3. Justin Rahul Dev

Race 2 (Round 1)

Super Sporting Class

  1. Mitchell Cheah (Prima Pearl TD Racing)
  2. Nabil Azlan (Wheelcorp)
  3. Eddie Lew (Laser Motor Racing)

Sporting Class

  1. Elson Lew (BAE Racing by ES Yang)
  2. Taj Izrin Aiman (Saksama Motorsports)
  3. Monai (RUK Team Nexzter PMC 52)

Rookie Class

  1. Ian James
  2. Aydan Khaliq
  3. Genevieve Ooi
NEWS

UMW Toyota forms strategic partnership with MOT, delivers five electrified vehicles for evaluation

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has forged a strategic partnership with the Ministry of Transport Malaysia (MOT) to drive green mobility initiatives.

As a show of strong support, UMWT has delivered five electrified vehicles, including hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) such as the Toyota Alphard, Camry, and Corolla Cross, as well as two battery electric vehicles (BEVs), the Toyota bZ4X and Lexus RZ.

Through this initiative, the MOT has the opportunity to assess the true capabilities of these vehicles concerning suitability, performance, and benefits for daily use.

Additionally, UMWT will provide comprehensive hands-on learning opportunities for MOT officials, covering aspects from infrastructure readiness, user experience to operational efficiency across various platforms.

According to Datuk Ravindran K, President of UMW Toyota Motor, “Malaysia’s journey towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 is not just an empty vision, but a collective mission that demands close collaboration across all sectors.”

“Through the ‘Multipathway Toyota’ approach, electrification is not merely viewed as an innovation, but is also adapted in an inclusive and pragmatic manner according to the needs, readiness, and capabilities of various segments of society.”

“With this approach, every layer of society is given the opportunity to move forward together towards a greener and more sustainable future—no one will be left behind, no one will be marginalized,” he further stated.

While full electrification remains a long-term aspiration for the country, hybrid technology emerges as an effective solution to minimize carbon emissions without requiring drastic changes to existing infrastructure or consumer habits.

According to Mohd Shamsor Mohd Zain, Executive Director of UMW Toyota Motor, “Hybrid technology continues to be a key driver in Toyota’s electrification plan, particularly in the context of markets like Malaysia.”

“Its ability to reduce carbon emissions immediately without necessitating major changes to the supporting ecosystem makes it the most ideal option.”

“It not only offers practical solutions but also builds confidence among mainstream consumers while paving a smoother and more progressive path towards a fully electric mobility future.”

NEWS

Bentley Continental GT Speed officially launched in Malaysia, priced from RM3.12 million

Bentley Kuala Lumpur recently celebrated the arrival of the most powerful grand tourer (GT) model ever produced, the Bentley Continental GT Speed.

This fourth generation Continental GT Speed is powered by a V8 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) ‘Ultra Performance Hybrid’ engine that delivers a total power of 782 PS and torque of 1,000 Nm.

The twin-turbo V8 engine itself is capable of producing 600 PS and 800 Nm, paired with an electric motor generating 190 PS/450 Nm, which is integrated into the transmission housing to reduce turbo lag.

Overall, this PHEV setup provides a 19 percent increase in power and an 11 percent higher torque compared to the W12 engine-equipped Continental GT Speed.

There is no need for cylinder deactivation anymore, as the hybrid system in the Continental GT Speed can completely stop the engine’s operation when the electric motor is running.

The power is transmitted to the wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, assisted by an electronically controlled limited-slip differential (eLSD).

Consequently, the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in just 3.2 seconds before reaching a top speed of 335 km/h.

The 25.9 kWh battery pack allows this GT to be driven in zero-emission mode for up to 80 km at speeds of up to 140 km/h.

The Continental GT Speed also comes equipped with an active all-wheel drive system, all-wheel steering, torque vectoring, Bentley Dynamic Ride, and new generation ESC control software.

To ensure this GT machine stops excellently, Bentley has fitted a braking system consisting of a 10-piston caliper and 420 mm rotors at the front, followed by a four-piston caliper and 380 mm rotors at the rear.

There is also an option to equip a carbon-silicon-carbide braking system with 440 mm rotors at the front and 410 mm at the rear.

This fourth generation Bentley Continental GT is the first Bentley model to feature a single headlight setup, replacing the previous dual round light configuration.

The LED matrix headlight unit features 120 individual LEDs that can be digitally controlled to maximize lighting.

Meanwhile, the rear lights have a three-dimensional diamond pattern that creates a molten lava effect when lit.

All four wheel arch corners are adorned with newly designed 22-inch rims inspired by tigers.

The cockpit of the Bentley Continental GT Speed provides seats that can be adjusted in 20 ways, ensuring great comfort for long journeys, a cluster of function buttons for HVAC on the center console, and the presence of an analog clock at the center of the air conditioning vents.

For the driver, a digital cluster screen is provided, while the center features the Bentley Rotating Display that offers three different sides: a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, three analog dials, or a blank panel if you prefer an uninterrupted driving experience.

Three audio system options are offered for the Continental GT:

  • Standard 650W with 10 speakers
  • Bang & Olufsen 1,500W with 16 speakers and illuminated grilles
  • Naim 2,200W, 18 speakers, Active Bass Transducers, and up to eight modes available for audiophiles

Cabin comfort is enhanced by laminated acoustic glass, which offers up to 9 dB quieter performance compared to non-acoustic glass.

This Bentley GT is also equipped with support for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, over-the-air (OTA) updates, ambient lighting systems, and Intelligent Park Assist features.

For the Malaysian market, the Bentley Continental GT Speed is priced from RM3,120,000 excluding insurance, road tax, and registration, as well as personal customization options.

NEWS

Continental to close Alor Setar plant by end of 2025

Continental has announced the impending closure of its tire manufacturing facility in Alor Setar, Kedah by the end of 2025.

The decision to close the tire plant in Alor Setar is the result of a comprehensive business review aimed at safeguarding competitiveness and business performance in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region.

It has been reported that Continental will continue to support all 950 employees through career counseling and exploring job opportunities within the company as well as externally.

The tire plant in Alor Setar began operations on December 20, 1979, and became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Continental in May 2012.

In addition to Alor Setar, Continental operates several tire manufacturing plants in the APAC region, located in Hefei (China), Rayong (Thailand), Modipuram (India), Kalutara (Sri Lanka), and Petaling Jaya (Malaysia).

Malaysia will continue to be a key market in the APAC region, where Continental plans to optimize its local product portfolio and monitor production.

NEWS

Isuzu Malaysia appoints Tomoyuki Yamaguchi as new CEO

Isuzu Malaysia has announced the appointment of Tomoyuki Yamaguchi as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective April 24, 2025. He succeeds Shunsuke Okazoe, who will be taking up a position in Japan.

A graduate of Toyo University, Yamaguchi joined Isuzu Motors in 1997 in the International Operations Department, where he managed markets such as Russia and Ukraine.

Additionally, he has been involved in managing markets in CIS countries and the Southwest Asia region before serving at Isuzu Motors South Africa.

Upon his arrival in Malaysia, Yamaguchi will prioritize strengthening Isuzu’s dealer network and service levels, while also ensuring a consistent supply of spare parts for the benefit of Isuzu vehicle owners.

“Isuzu Malaysia continues to be an exemplary model on the global stage. The operations here have created a loyal customer base that appreciates the durability and capabilities of Isuzu vehicles. This aligns with our goal of creating lifetime customers for the brand. However, we must continue to maintain that commitment and always ensure a positive experience for every customer,” Yamaguchi explained.

In Japan, Shunsuke Okazoe now holds the position of Deputy President in the Japan Sales Division at Isuzu Motors Ltd.

NEWS

2025 Hanway Heritage 400 officially launched in Malaysia – RM22,800

Another Chinese brand has officially entered the Malaysian market, namely Hanway, which presents a new cruiser model called the Heritage 400.

The Hanway Heritage 400 features a bobber-style design offering either a single-seat option or a dual-seat configuration for two riders at a time.

It is powered by a liquid-cooled 401 cc twin-cylinder engine that produces 41.6 hp at 9,500 rpm and a torque of 34 Nm at 8,000 rpm.

This power is transmitted to the rear wheel through a six-speed transmission and chain final drive.

The cradle-type frame is supported by suspension that includes telescopic forks at the front, followed by twin shock absorbers with preload adjustment at the rear.

For braking, the bike is equipped with dual 300 mm rotors for the front wheel, complemented by a single 255 mm rotor at the rear, and a two-channel ABS system.

The Hanway Heritage 400 features amenities such as an LED headlight unit, a combination analog and digital display, a seat height of 690 mm, and a 12-liter fuel tank.

In Malaysia, the 2025 Hanway Heritage 400 is priced at RM22,800.

NEWS

Toyota GR Supra Track Edition lands in Malaysia – from RM698,000

In addition to the launch of the automatic variant of the GR Yaris, UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has also announced the availability of the latest Gazoo Racing model, the Toyota GR Supra Track Edition.

Unlike the standard GR Supra model, the Track Edition variant promises a more exhilarating driving experience, thanks to upgrades in the chassis, handling, and aerodynamics.

The Toyota GR Supra Track Edition is powered by a three-liter inline six-cylinder turbo engine that produces 388 PS and 500 Nm of torque, with an option for a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Acceleration from 0-100 km/h is as quick as 4.1 seconds, or 4.3 seconds for the manual version.

What makes driving the GR Supra Track Edition even more exciting is the use of adaptive suspension system tuned for more effective grip, along with a Track Edition-exclusive recalibration of the power steering system and limited-slip differential (LSD).

The braking system has been upgraded to larger 374 mm front rotors, assisted by Brembo four-piston calipers.

Additionally, enhanced aerodynamic features include wider wheel arches, aero fins, and a carbon fiber ducktail spoiler for increased downforce.

Moreover, Toyota has strengthened the front control arms and adjusted the front negative camber for more agile handling, accompanied by upgraded bushings and sway bars for sharper handling response.

The Toyota GR Supra Track Edition comes with 19-inch matte black alloy wheels fitted with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires.

For the cabin, it features black leather and Alcantara upholstery with GR logo stitching, red seatbelts, a JBL sound system with 12 speakers, a colored head-up display, and a special gear knob for the manual GR Supra.

Standard safety features included in this sports car comprise pre-collision warning, lane departure warning with steering assist, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and emergency braking.

In the Malaysian market, the GR Supra Track Edition is priced starting at RM698,000.

NEWS

Toyota GR Yaris 8-speed automatic variant now available in Malaysia – RM325,600

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has announced the arrival of the Toyota GR Yaris facelift hot hatch, which is now available in an 8-speed automatic variant.

The introduction of this model complements the previously launched manual version of the Toyota GR Yaris facelift during the conclusion of the seventh season of the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival in Malaysia.

The GR Yaris continues to feature the 1.6-liter inline 3-cylinder turbo engine, G16E-GTS, which now produces 300 PS and 400 Nm of torque.

With the newly paired automatic DAT transmission, the GR Yaris can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds.

This high-performance engine is also equipped with a standard cooling package, which includes a sub-radiator, intercooler spray, and a combination of air and fluid ATF coolers to ensure consistent performance, especially under Malaysia’s hot weather.

Additionally, this Automatic variant of the GR Yaris introduces new features such as Launch Control and paddle shifters, which have been fine-tuned based on motorsport experience to provide a more exciting driving experience for everyday journeys.

Finally, it comes with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes pre-collision warnings, radar cruise control, lane tracing assistance (LTA), and Expert Mode for drivers seeking a more dynamic control without completely disabling the vehicle stability system.

For the Malaysian market, the Toyota GR Yaris AT is priced at RM325,600 and is available at all GR Garage dealers nationwide.

NEWS

Ariic 318GT maxi scooter now in Malaysia – RM22,888

MForce Bike Holdings has recently launched another maxi scooter for the local market under the Ariic brand, the 318GT 2025.

This scooter is powered by a single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine with a displacement of 330 cc, capable of producing 27.6 hp at 7,000 rpm and torque of 30.8 Nm at 5,500 rpm.

The name 318GT is inspired by National Highway 318, which has the longest distance in China.

The suspension system consists of a front fork and dual shock absorbers at the rear, assisted by a dual 260 mm disc brake system in the front, a single 240 mm rotor in the back, and a two-channel ABS.

Features of the 318GT include LED headlights with aggressive daytime running lights (DRL), LED taillights, an electronically adjustable windscreen, illuminated control buttons, a USB charging port, a front riding recorder camera, and a smart key system.

Additionally, it provides a central storage compartment, as well as under-seat storage that can accommodate a full-face helmet and a half helmet.

The scooter also features a full-color TFT display with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

It has a fuel tank capacity of approximately 16 liters, while the seat height is 790 mm.

For the Malaysian market, the Ariic 318GT is priced at RM22,888, excluding road tax and insurance.

NEWS

Jetour T2 with three body kit concepts showcased at 2025 Auto Shanghai

The Jetour T2 is a mid-size SUV that features a unibody construction and offers characteristics suitable for off-road driving.

In its standard version, the Jetour T2 boasts a boxy SUV design reminiscent of the popular Land Rover Defender.

This design element is accentuated by a variety of accessories available for customization, based on the presence of several body kit variants showcased at Auto Shanghai 2025.

Near the Hilton Shanghai Hongqiao hotel, where the media are staying, Jetour displayed the T2 Stargazer version, complete with accessories such as:

  • A front bumper with a protective bar
  • A more aggressive grille
  • Distinctive alloy wheels
  • Side steps
  • A taller engine hood
  • A roof rack
  • Wider front and rear fenders
  • A foldable ladder on the left side
  • An external storage box on the right side
  • An external storage compartment on the tailgate door
  • Protective metal for the rear light housing

At the Jetour International Business Annual Conference dinner, they presented two additional accessory concepts known as Stargazer Air and Nexus Sentinel.

Unlike the Stargazer, the Stargazer Air package is more streamlined, lacking features such as a roof rack, side storage box, and foldable ladder.

The Nexus Sentinel accessory package features a futuristic and modern design, with wider front and rear fenders, an aerodynamic roof rack, and a cyberpunk-style fuel tank cover.

For your information, Jetour has previously confirmed plans to launch the Jetour T2 SUV model in the Malaysian market soon.

 

Jetour T2 Stargazer

 

Jetour T2 Stargazer Air

 

Jetour T2 Nexus Sentinel

NEWS

Jetour T2 featured in cheetah stripes at 2025 Auto Shanghai

Did you know that in addition to producing an impressive lineup of attention-grabbing off-road SUVs, Jetour is also involved in cheetah conservation initiatives?

The cheetah, the fastest land animal in the world, is capable of reaching speeds of up to 120 km/h. However, this species is now on the brink of extinction, with an estimated fewer than 7,500 individuals remaining on Earth due to habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and illegal wildlife trade.

In early 2024, Jetour partnered with Discovery Channel and visited Namibia—home to a significant population of cheetahs—to learn about conservation efforts for this magnificent species.

Following this collaboration, Jetour established a strategic relationship with the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) in September 2024.

Among the initiatives carried out are funding the annual care of two cheetah cubs and donating official vehicles to enhance cheetah habitats.

Jetour is also working with Discovery Channel to produce a documentary about cheetah recovery as well as promoting the “Protect the Cheetah” initiative worldwide.

This collaboration is embodied in the unique cheetah stripe livery on the Jetour T2 i-DM SUV model, which was displayed at the 2025 Jetour International Business Conference held in Shanghai recently.

NEWS

Jetour unveils F700 pickup truck prototype secretly in Shanghai

At 2025 Auto Shanghai, Jetour showcased a futuristic full-size pickup truck concept model, the F700.

Why do we say it’s futuristic?

The F700 Concept features ‘coach’ style doors similar to those found on luxury models like Rolls-Royce, or suicide doors without a B-pillar in the middle.

Not many people know that Jetour actually displayed a prototype model of the F700, which closely resembles the actual production version at the Hilton Shanghai Hongqiao hotel, which served as the accommodation for global media.

Unfortunately, we were not allowed to take photos of the impressive pickup truck model, as all recording devices and smartphones had to be left outside the giant box.

What we can conclude is that the F700 is essentially the G700 in a pickup version, with a boxy body design and a front structure that is almost the same.

The F700 shares the same platform as the G700 ladder-frame SUV.

According to the specification sheet placed next to the model, the F700 is powered by a 2.0-liter TGDI hybrid engine mated to a hybrid transmission (DHT) and two electric motors (one for each axle).

The F700 is also equipped with a 34.13 kWh battery pack.

The pickup truck chassis is supported by double-wishbone suspension both front and rear, as well as a four-wheel drive (4WD) system.

With the addition of a bed at the rear, the F700 has larger dimensions, measuring 5,495 mm in length compared to the G700’s 5.1 meters, with a wheelbase of 3,350 mm.

So far, the F700 model is still in the development stage, with the actual production version likely to be revealed to the public in the near future.

 

Jetour G700

NEWS

Jetour G900: Flagship SUV concept from the GAIA platform

The Jetour booth at 2025 Auto Shanghai was further enlivened by the debut of the Jetour G900 model.

Similar to the Jetour G700, the Jetour G900 Concept is built on the premium off-road GAIA platform.

Equipped with an amphibious hybrid system, the iDM-O, featuring four electric motors and marine-grade navigation, the Jetour G900 can be driven on both land and water effortlessly, with a thrust reaching up to 2,500 Nm.

Additionally, the G900’s ground clearance can be adjusted from a minimum height of 150 mm to a maximum of 350 mm.

Not only that, but the G900 is also set to offer exciting functionalities such as tank-turn capability and crab mode movement.

In terms of cabin space, the Jetour G900 will come with an intelligent cockpit function, cabin oxygen supply system, and continuous connectivity.

At this stage, the G900 remains a concept model, with no detailed specifications disclosed to the media.

NEWS

Premium off-road SUV Jetour G700 makes debut at 2025 Auto Shanghai

The Jetour 3.0 era witnesses the emergence of several larger SUVs, packed with various types of technology.

One of them is the premium off-road SUV Jetour G700, previously known as the Jetour T5 Concept.

The G700 is indeed a large SUV, with a length reaching 5.1 meters and an adjustable ground clearance ranging from as low as 150 mm to as high as 350 mm.

This premium SUV is powered by the iDM-O Super Hybrid system, which consists of a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine paired with a two-speed hybrid transmission (DHT).

The total power output reaches 760 hp and 795 Nm.

According to a report from CarNewsChina, the Jetour G700 is also offered with a range-extending power unit (EREV) called CEM-O.

This EREV variant is equipped with a 2.0-liter engine that generates power for the battery and electric motor.

This power unit also pairs four electric motors, achieving power output of 1,572 hp, significantly more powerful than the BYD Yangwang U8 SUV (1,180 hp).

With a ladder-frame platform, the G700 can tow loads weighing up to 3.5 tons, in addition to its ability to wade through water up to 900 mm deep, featuring rear axle steering and a tilt mode.

Unfortunately, we did not have the opportunity to examine the G700’s cabin in more detail.

However, based on reports from international media, the G700 is an SUV that offers seating for six through a 2+2+2 configuration, along with a large infotainment screen and adjustable seating angles for the third-row seats.

Currently, Jetour Malaysia has not revealed any plans to bring this SUV into the local market.

NEWS

Jetour enters 3.0 era, introduces GAIA smart off-road platform at 2025 Auto Shanghai

Unlike other brands under the large Chery group, Jetour is more focused on producing SUV and crossover vehicles.

The manufacturer employs a Travel+ strategy that categorizes its vehicles into three main categories.

Era 1.0 was more about family-oriented models such as the Dashing series and the VT9, followed by Era 2.0, which featured comfortable off-road vehicles like the T1 and T2.

Now, Jetour is entering Era 3.0, showcasing several premium off-road models packed with advanced and intelligent technologies, such as the G700 SUV, the G600 concept model, the G900 concept, and the F700 pickup truck concept.

The cornerstone of this off-road model lineup is undoubtedly the GAIA architecture (short for Generational of All-Terrain Intelligent Architecture).

GAIA is a new generation platform for off-road vehicles that specifically utilizes a ladder-frame chassis, offering a suspension travel of up to 150 mm and a maximum ground clearance of 350 mm.

There are two hybrid systems offered by GAIA; one is the iDM-O Super Hybrid, which provides more efficient off-road performance and fuel economy.

The other system is known as the iEM-O Amphibious Range Extender, which delivers tank-level torque of up to 18,000 Nm, as well as a thrust of 2,500 Nm for smooth two-environment (land and water) driving.

It also offers features such as tank turning capability and crab mode for off-road driving.

In addition, Jetour is providing six innovative features, including:

  • Low-orbit satellite communication
  • Self-oxidizing production
  • AI-based cockpit
  • Advanced terrain navigation and parking assistance
  • Vehicle-cloud integration
  • Continuous intelligence system upgrades through over-the-air (OTA) updates.
EV, NEWS

Jetour X20e, a small EV suitable for the Malaysian market?

At the Shanghai Hongqiao Hotel, another electric SUV known as the X20e made an appearance next to a segment B electric SUV.

The design of the X20e certainly reminds us of the smart brand’s EV, the #1, particularly in the front and rear light designs; most notably, the finishing on both C-pillars stands out.

Interestingly, the showcased X20e is a right-hand drive (RHD) version.

Does this mean that Jetour is ready to market this model for right-hand drive countries?

Since the X20e is a very new model, there are no specifications available to report at this time, and it is not listed on any official Jetour websites.

However, based on the exhibited model, the X20e is equipped with 15-inch alloy wheels, a pastel green color, hidden door handles, and a floating roof design inspired by the smart #1.

Inside, the cabin features two separate display screens for the driver and the center console, physical control buttons for the air conditioning system, a three-tone dashboard finish, and relatively comfortable fabric-wrapped seats.

With very few small EVs currently available in the Malaysian market, could the X20e be a suitable candidate for urban driving?

EV, NEWS

Jetour showcases B-segment electric SUV in Shanghai, set to use new name

In addition to family SUVs like the Dashing and VT9, Jetour has also showcased a B-segment electric SUV with a name that is quite similar to another popular B-segment SUV in Malaysia.

However, according to information from Jetour Malaysia, this SUV will be known by a new name—similar to the approach used for the VT9 model.

This electric SUV has already appeared in the Indonesian market a few months ago.

According to specifications, it is powered by a single electric motor producing 164 hp and 280 Nm of torque, paired with a 53.6 kWh battery pack, providing a driving range of 401 km.

In terms of dimensions, this SUV measures 4,100 mm in length, 1,831 mm in width, and 1,653 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,705 mm.

Key exterior features of this electric SUV include a charging port at the front, 18-inch rims, and front and rear LED lights.

This right-hand drive EV also comes equipped with interior features such as a digital cluster screen, a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, leather-wrapped seats, a 360-degree camera, a sunroof, and a cargo space of 368 liters.

As teased during the launch of the Dashing recently, this electric SUV is also expected to enter the Malaysian market in the near future, likely under a new name rather than the official name currently in use.

Will this Jetour electric SUV become the best alternative to other SUVs such as the BYD Atto 3, Chery Omoda E5, Honda e:N1, and smart #1?

NEWS

Jetour’s 7-seater SUV now officially named VT9

Following the launch of the Dashing model, Jetour Malaysia has confirmed that another seven-seater family SUV will soon be arriving in Malaysia.

Unlike the name used in international markets, this three-row SUV will be known as the Jetour VT9, as indicated in a post on Instagram.

The Jetour VT9 was first showcased at the 2024 Malaysia Autoshow.

Recently, Jetour displayed the right-hand drive (RHD) version of the VT9 at the Hilton Shanghai Hongqiao hotel, coinciding with the Jetour Together For Future conference and 2025 Auto Shanghai.

The VT9 is fundamentally a D-segment SUV with dimensions of 4,724 mm in length, 1,900 mm in width, and 1,720 mm in height, along with a wheelbase of 2,720 mm.

In Malaysia, it will compete with models such as the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro and the Proton X90.

In terms of power, the VT9 features the same 1.5-liter turbo engine used in the Dashing model, paired with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).

Based on the displayed RHD model, the VT9’s cabin layout closely resembles that of the Dashing, featuring amenities such as a dual 10.25-inch display, a steering wheel, push-button start styled like Mercedes, a wireless device charger, and a Jetour gear knob.

The most noticeable difference between the two models is the design of the door panels and the finishing on the front seats.

Further specifications and pricing details will only be revealed ahead of the official launch set to take place at the 2025 Malaysia Autoshow next month.

NEWS

Jetour T2 set to arrive in Malaysia: here’s what you need to know

During the launch of the Jetour Dashing in early April, Jetour Malaysia also revealed plans to introduce a lineup of crossover and off-road SUV models to the local market.

One of the off-road SUVs confirmed for entry into Malaysia is the Jetour T2, also known as the Traveller in the Chinese market.

The Jetour T2 is a mid-size SUV built on the Kunlun unibody platform and features design elements inspired by the popular Land Rover Defender.

It measures 4,785 mm in length, 2,036 mm in width, 1,960 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,800 mm.

The Jetour T2 offers a 28-degree approach angle, a 30-degree departure angle, and a ground clearance of 220 mm, aided by MacPherson strut suspension at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear.

Similar to the Dashing, the design of the T2 was created by former Porsche designer Hakan Saracoglu.

In terms of power, the Jetour T2 is available with a choice of a 1.5-liter turbo engine (181 hp/290 Nm) paired with a seven-speed DCT transmission.

There is also a 2.0-liter turbo engine option (251 hp/390 Nm) that can be matched with either a seven-speed DCT or an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of the T2 is powered by a 1.5-liter turbo engine combined with two electric motors and a three-speed DHT transmission, producing a total output of 375 hp and 610 Nm.

With a 26.7 kWh battery pack, the T2 PHEV (or T2 i-DM) can achieve an electric-only driving range of 139 km, with a total range of up to 1,000 km.

Currently, Jetour Malaysia has yet to announce the specifications for the T2 that will be launched later.

At the Hilton Shanghai Hongqiao, Jetour showcased the right-hand drive (RHD) version of the T2, which is reportedly still in the prototype stage.

In addition to the right-hand steering position, the Jetour T2 RHD is equipped with a 10.25-inch digital cluster screen, a 15.6-inch central display, a panoramic glass roof, and leather-wrapped seating.

On the center console, there is a rotary dial for selecting driving modes (economy, standard, sports, snow, mud, sand, rock, and adaptive X), as well as a relatively large gear shifter.

Along with a cargo space of 580 liters, the Jetour T2 also provides an external storage box mounted on the tailgate door.

Aligning with its nature as an off-road SUV, Jetour offers a variety of accessories that can be installed, including roof racks, storage boxes on the C/D pillars, foldable ladders, and more.

Advanced safety features included are front collision warning (FCW), lane departure warning (LDW), blind spot monitoring (BSD), door opening warning (DOW), rear cross-traffic alert (RCTA), autonomous emergency braking (AEB), lane-keeping assistance (LKA), and adaptive cruise control (ACC).

One question remains: What price will Jetour Malaysia set for the T2 SUV?

NEWS

Mitsubishi 3S centre officially opens in Teluk Panglima Garang

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has announced the official opening of a new 3S centre (sales, service, and spare parts) in Teluk Panglima Garang, Selangor.

Operated by MN Wheels Sdn Bhd, the new Mitsubishi Motors 3S centre is situated on a 27,000 square foot plot of land, with a building size of approximately 10,000 square feet.

The facility features a comfortable showroom and a fully-equipped service center complete with diagnostic tools.

Shinya Ikeda, CEO of MMM, stated, “On behalf of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, we deeply appreciate MN Wheels’ support and commitment to the brand.”

He added, “The opening of this new outlet will bring our products and services closer to the community, ensuring that our customers in Teluk Panglima Garang are in good hands.”

The latest Mitsubishi Motors 3S centre is located at No. 4, Jalan Gangsa, Kawasan Perindustrian Teluk Panglima Garang, 42500 Teluk Panglima Garang, Selangor.

For information, Mitsubishi Motors now has a total of 18 3S dealer centres around the Klang Valley.