The weekend is here, and just in case you’re relaxing in a supine position wondering about the Jaecoo J5 and its attractive RM108k price tag, we’ve got you covered in our latest video review.

This B-segment SUV takes more than a few cues from a certain Solihull-based 4×4 brand – whether that’s bad or good depends on how you see it. Under the bonnet is the Chery Tiggo Cross Turbo‘s blown 1.5 litre four-cylinder engine (147 PS and 210 Nm of torque), but here you get a CVT instead of the Chery’s DCT. 0-100 km/h is done in 10.2 seconds; top speed is 175 km/h.

In what may be a first for the Malaysian market, the J5 is marketed as a ‘pet-friendly’ vehicle (TÜV-certified, no less) – it’s got anti-bacterial and scratch-resistant faux leather upholstery with low volatile organic compounds. Accessories such as nets, mats and pet carriers are available.

Versus the Proton X50, the J5 is the same length, 65 mm wider, 41 mm taller, has a 20 mm longer wheelbase and a 150-litre bigger boot. But size isn’t everything… is it. So for the full lowdown, hit Play and let Hafriz Shah take you through the popular J7‘s adik.

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Kia Sales Malaysia (KSM) recently announced the appointment of Cycle & Carriage (C&C) as its latest authorised dealer partner. KSM is Kia Corporation’s arm in Malaysia, and it’s in charge of the brand’s sales, aftersales, training and all wholesale and retail operations in our market. Famous as a dealer for Mercedes-Benz, C&C also represents Leapmotor and Peugeot in Malaysia.

“The appointment of Cycle & Carriage, a renowned automotive brand in Malaysia with a legacy spanning over 125 years, reflects Kia’s commitment to strengthening our retail footprint and elevating the customer experience nationwide, while positioning the brand more competitively within Malaysia’s dynamic automotive landscape,” said KSM CEO Hyung Ho Kim.

“As one of the world’s largest carmakers, Kia is a strong addition to our portfolio. We are proud to welcome the brand and look forward to leveraging Cycle & Carriage’s automotive expertise and customer-focused sales, aftersales and service excellence to expand the brand’s market reach and deliver exceptional ownership journeys to customers in Malaysia,” said Adrian Short, C&C Malaysia CEO.

The collaboration between KSM and C&C unites two major forces within the Malaysian automotive landscape, offering Kia customers enhanced sales touchpoints, improved aftersales support, and elevated ownership experiences in line with Kia’s latest global standards, the carmaker said in a statement.

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Coming in a new colour option for Malaysia is the 2026 Honda Gold Wing Tour, priced at RM217,388. This pricing is a reduction of RM5,000 from the 2025 Honda Gold Wing price of RM222,888.

The new colour option is Gunmetal Black Metallic, and pricing does not include road tax, insurance and registration. Otherwise, specifications remain the same for the Gold Wing touring motorcycle in Malaysia.

Power still comes from the Gold Wing’s trade mark flat-six engine since the fourth generation Gold Wing GL1500. Power for the liquid-cooled, 24-valve, DOHC mill is rated at 124.7 hp at 5,500 rpm with a maximum torque of 170 Nm at 4,500 rpm.

Standard fitment is the seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) with reverse gear, with two wet multi-plate clutches, sending power to the rear wheel. Shaft final drive spins the rear 16-inch wheel wearing 200/55 tyre while the front wheel is an 18-inch hoop wearing 130/70 rubber.

Suspension for the Gold Wing is electronically controlled, with double wishbone layout and rear monoshock, working in conjunction with the Gold Wing’s ride modes. This minimises dive under braking and provides load compensation with rear spring preload electronically adjustable separately from the ride modes if desired.

Also standard equipment on the Gold Wing is Honda’s Motorcycle Airbag System comprising of an airbag module which includes the airbag and the inflator, and crash sensors. Riding conveniences include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, along with Bluetooth connectivity to the rider’s smartphone.

An electrically adjustable windscreen offers stepless adjustment for both height and angle allowing riders to fine-tune wind protection to their preference. A total of 121-litres of storage is found on the Gold Wing, with electronic locking and unlocking of the top box and panniers using the Gold Wing’s smart key system.

Braking is done with the Dual Combined Brake System (D-CBS) automatically balancing braking force between front and rear wheels, guided by an ABS modulator and brake ECU. Twin brake discs with six-piston callipers are fitted to the front wheel, while the rear wheel gets a single disc with three-piston calliper.

Other riding conveniences include four ride modes, cruise control, Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), and Hill Start Assist (HSA), and two USB charging sockets while riding information is displayed on a. seven-inch TFT-LCD screen. The Gold Wing tips the scales at 391 kg, with a 20-litre fuel tank and seat height set at 745 mm.

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BYD VP and GM of the carmaker’s Asia Pacific Auto Sales Division Liu Xueliang (pic, second from right) has said in his speech at the launch of BYD Mansion Macalister in Penang that the carmaker remains committed to the Malaysian market despite recent new government policies on EVs.

“We noticed that the Malaysian government has released new policies regarding new energy vehicles (NEV). As a responsible technology company, we will continue to bring our best technologies and products to Malaysia.

“Together with the relevant authorities of the Malaysian government and our distributor and dealer partners, we will find the most suitable NEV development solutions for the Malaysian market,” he said.

“We respect all the policies from the Malaysian government and we hope to use our efforts, our wisdom and our spirit, with the cooperation of all the Malaysian consumers and friends to continue delivering the best technologies and products to Malaysia,” he added.

To recap, MITI’s new fully-imported (CBU) EV regulations mean that BYD’s current all-CBU line-up will either be outlawed because they don’t make at least 180 kW (245 PS), or become expensive (Seal and Sealion 7) because the CIF needs to be at least RM200k. The way around this is local assembly (CKD), but because BYD was looking at setting up a new factory, new regulations stipulate a RM100k floor price as well as a target of 80% of production to be exported.

Liu also revealed that BYD is looking at expanding in East Malaysia. “Last year, I went to East Malaysia, and I can feel there is a lot of demand from consumers there for BYD technologies and products. I made a promise that we will bring BYD technologies and products to East Malaysia,” he said.

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UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has announced that it sold 6,464 units in April, lifting its year-to-date (YTD) tally to 21,924 units (which is 21% of its 102,417-unit 2025 sales total). This is its best month so far this year, after March’s 5,814, February’s 4,856 and January’s 4,700. You can see the trend is steadily rising.

The road transport department‘s (JPJ) latest data shows that a total of 9,055 Toyotas were registered in Malaysia in April, which means 2,591 were not sold through official channels.

As usual, UMWT does not disclose sales broken down by model, but according to JPJ data, Malaysia’s best-selling Toyota is the Hilux (10th in April with 1,804 units, 11th YTD with 6,568 units) while the Vios and Alphard (including those not sold by UMWT) are neck and neck – last month, the sedan sold 1,706 units for 12th (14th YTD with 5,451 units) while the MPV did 1,487 for 14th (13th YTD with 5,543 units).

UMWT launched three EVs on the same day in April – the bZ4X, Urban Cruiser EV and Hilux EV. Less than a month later, it launched the Yaris Cross, which is available in ICE and hybrid versions. Other Toyotas launched this year include the Vellfire Hybrid, GR Corolla AT and Vios Hybrid.

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Chery Malaysia has released teasers for its next model, the Chery Tiggo 9. The T9 is the flagship of Chery’s Tiggo range of SUVs, and it will sit on top of the Tiggo Cross, Tiggo 7 Pro, Tiggo 8 and Tiggo 8 Pro in the company’s local line-up.

“The Tiggo 9 does not try to impress. It simply meets you at your level, as a flagship SUV defined by presence, precision, and intelligent control. With all-wheel drive capability, a meticulously refined cabin, and the kind of confident road presence that leaders will recognise immediately, the Tiggo 9 is for those who have earned the right to expect more from everything — including the drive,” the social media caption reads.

Registrations of interest are now open, and the RoI page lists down the SUV’s equipment highlights. While Chery Malaysia previously said that the Tiggo 9 will be offered with a CSH plug-in hybrid powertrain, the RoI page mentions 2.0T AWD, so perhaps the PHEV will come at a later date. Chery is already selling CSH variants of the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8, so it’s just a matter of time before there’s a flagship PHEV in town.

The 2.0T in question is the Tiggo 8 Pro’s 256 PS/390 Nm 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder engine, paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. While the T8P is front-wheel-drive, the T9 gets AWD with seven modes. These should be Eco, Normal, Sport, Sand, Mud, Snow and Off-Road. The T9 rides on 20-inch alloys, an inch up from the T8P’s wheels.

Comfort and convenience features highlighted include a 15.6-inch 2.5K central screen powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8155 chip, head-up display, a 10-way powered driver’s seat, front ventilated seats with massage function, second-row ventilated seats and a Sony audio system with 14 speakers, including front headrest speakers. Kit wise, this is a big step up from the T8P.

On the safety side, this big SUV will come with 10 airbags and a full ADAS suite with 23 features.

The Tiggo 9 is 4,810 mm long and 1,925 mm wide, which makes it 88 mm longer and 65 mm wider than the Tiggo 8 Pro. Its 2.8m wheelbase is 90 mm longer than the T8P’s. It’s big all right, but a touch smaller in footprint – 10 mm shorter, 5 mm narrower, wheelbase 20 mm shorter – than the massive Jaecoo J8. Speaking of that giant, the Tiggo 9’s design is less in your face, more handsome – Audi-like, if you like.

That’s the size ballpark. As for price, the Tiggo 8 Pro retails for RM159,800. The Jaecoo J8 is priced from RM178,800 for the five-seater 2WD, to RM198,800 for the six-seater AWD. The Omoda C9 by Jaecoo – similarly sized and also powered by Chery’s 2.0T engine – goes for RM168,800 for the 2WD and RM188,800 for the AWD. We’ll leave you to guesstimate the Tiggo 9’s price.

What do you think of the Chery Tiggo 9’s looks and package?

GALLERY: Chery Tiggo 9 CSH at BIMS 2025

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Mercedes-Benz Malaysia and Asbenz Stern today unveiled a new Autohaus in Kuantan, the largest of its kind on the East Coast that serves to strengthen the German brand’s retail presence in the region.

Located in the Indera Mahkota area, the Asbenz Stern Kuantan Autohaus features a total built-up area of 65,340 square feet, of which 26,565 square feet is dedicated to a display area that can accommodate up to six vehicles, as well as a customer spaces such as the Star Lounge and Mercedes-Benz Lifestyle Collection showcase.

To expand its aftersales services, the new Kuantan Autohaus now includes integrated body and paint services. As such, it is now a 4S facility, which is an upgrade from the previous 3S centre launched by Asbenz Stern back in 2018.

In addition to B&P services, the new facility is equipped with 16 work bays to handle everything from scheduled maintenance to more extensive repair work, all carried out by Mercedes-Benz trained and certified technicians.

There is also an on-site DC fast charger capable of up to 120 kW and equipped with two charging guns to charge two vehicles simultaneously, including fully electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.

“Opening the new Asbenz Stern Kuantan Autohaus reflects our shared commitment to continuously elevating the Mercedes-Benz customer experience in the East Coast region,” said Martin Schulz, CEO and president of Mercedes-Benz Cars Malaysia and head of region at Mercedes-Benz Cars Southeast Asia.

“Kuantan has always been an important location for us, and this new Autohaus marks the next step in our journey here. By investing in a purpose-built facility with expanded capabilities, including body and paint services, we are able to serve our customers more efficiently and comprehensively. Our commitment remains the same, to deliver the level of care and quality that our customers expect from Mercedes-Benz,” commented Goh Chuan Kiong, managing director of Asbenz Stern.

Asbenz Motors’ partnership with Mercedes-Benz started in May 2004 and to date, the company has invested a total of RM35 million across its network, including the latest RM23 million investment in its Kuantan Autohaus – the company also has a presence in Kedah and Terengganu. You can visit Asbenz Stern Kuantan Autohaus at No C1, Mahkota Valley, Jalan IM 9/1, Bandar Indera Mahkota, 25200 Kuantan, Pahang.

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National registration department (JPN) director-general Datuk Badrul Hisham Alias has revealed that the new MyKad (informally called the identity card or IC), which is expected to be introduced next month, will not be able to function as a Touch ‘n Go (TnG) card, Bernama reports.

Why this is so has not been officially divulged – perhaps the reasons are security- and theft-related. But your TnG card can just as easily be stolen, and you can always terminate the card in the event of theft and get your money back.

Personally, I have always found the MyKad’s TnG feature to be extremely useful – after all, my MyKad is always with me and I then don’t have to carry a separate TnG card around. It’s also useful for emergencies, such as when you inadvertently leave your TnG card in another car – you will always be able to pay toll, parking or hop on the LRT. OK, it’s not NFC-enabled so I can’t reload it using my phone, but that’s the only drawback I can see.

However, after 10 happy years of convenience, this boon was taken away from me last year when my MyKad’s TnG finally expired. Thankfully, I was at KL Sentral at the time, so it was a short walk to NU Sentral’s Touch ‘n Go Hub. There I was told that renewal wasn’t possible and that if I wanted to continue using my MyKad as a TnG card, I had to go and get a new MyKad, which of course I didn’t bother with.

Anyway, you don’t have to rush to replace your MyKads once the new one is out. “The law does not require holders of the existing MyKad to immediately replace their cards once the new version is introduced,” Bernama quoted home minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail as saying recently.

So if you’re a MyKad TnG user, presumably you should be able to continue using your current MyKad as a TnG card until your 10-year validity expires, unless any contrary future announcements are made.

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Besides the soon-to-be-launched Tunland V7 and V9, Foton is also displaying the electric eTunland at the Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo (MCVE), held at the Mines International Exhibition and Convention Centre (MIECC). Unlike its other siblings, there are currently no plans to introduce this particular pick-up, with distributor Handal BCM using the show as an opportunity to gauge public demand.

The eTunland is based on the smaller Tunland G7 – i.e. the original Tunland – and is around 300 mm shorter than the V7 and V9, meaning that its size is far more in line with one-tonne competitors like the Toyota Hilux – now also available in EV form. Measuring 5,340 mm long, 1,940 mm wide and 1,870 mm tall, it’s 20 mm longer, 85 mm wider and 25 mm taller than the new Hilux EV, while its 3,110 mm wheelbase is 25 mm longer.

Of course, the eTunland is nowhere near as modern as the latest ninth-generation Hilux. The basic structure has existed in some form or another since 2011, with the electric version arriving in 2022. At the very least, this era of Foton truck came before the company decided to slavishly copy Ford and Ram’s full-size pick-ups with the V7 and V9 (okay, maybe the rear end is a bit too similar to the Nissan Navara, but that’s about it).

It’s clear that the eTunland was designed as a work truck first and foremost – the slim headlights still come with halogen projectors (although there are LED daytime running lights in the bumper), while the hexagonal grille is finished in plain black plastic, just with the massive chrome Foton script and blue lines that demarcate this truck as an electric one. The “OTO” centre section flips up to reveal the charging port, and the whole nondescript look is finished off by 17-inch silver alloy wheels.

The show unit features the G7’s latest interior design that is rather reminiscent of the pre-facelifted Mercedes-Benz GLE, sporting triple chrome-trimmed rectangular centre air-con vents and a widescreen panel housing twin 12.3-inch displays for instrumentation and infotainment. The piano black centre console is equipped with an electronic gear selector and parking brake, a four-way rotary controller, a split-opening armrest compartment and a single solitary cupholder.

Being an older truck, the eTunland isn’t exactly stacked with kit – while there is a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, faux leather upholstery, tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment, Apple CarPlay and a reverse camera, you get just four speakers and manual air con with rear vents. Interestingly enough, however, rear passengers receive their own air con controls, which even the V7 an V9 don’t get.

The eTunland is available with a single-motor 4×2 powertrain with outputs of 177 PS (130 kW) and 350 Nm of torque. An 88.6 kWh CATL LFP battery provides a range of 360 km on the WLTP cycle, which is over 100 km further than the Hilux EV. It only supports up to 70 kW of DC fast charging, however, so topping up from 20 to 80% takes a yawning 36 minutes, while a full charge at an AC wallbox charger takes ten hours.

The truck you see here is the dual-motor 4×4 variant, which produces a sum total of 340 PS (250 kW) and 526 Nm. No WLTP range figure for this one, but the more lenient CLTC produces 505 km. Curiously, while other EV trucks use either fully- or semi-independent suspension at the back, the eTunland’s rear motor is hung off the differential of a solid rear axle, and it still uses leaf springs. Despite this, however, the payload rating has taken a serious hit, with the bed only able to carry 525 kg.

Safety-wise, the eTunland can be had with up to six airbags (this particular unit has just two) to go with its stability control and hill descent control. There is also an available forward collision warning system, but with no autonomous emergency braking functionality.

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The Perodua Ativa Hybrid is finally confirmed for Malaysia, four years after its subscription-only trial programme branded by Perodua a study for EVs and long-term mobility as a service. By confirmed, we mean full local production and sales – unlike before, you’ll be able to buy one this time around.

Perodua president and CEO Datuk Seri Zainal Abidin Ahmad said that the company is finalising discussions, including production timelines and pricing, among other details. “Once we finalise all those items, we will make a proper announcement at a later date. Rest assured, the hybrid of this Ativa model will be produced locally,” he said yesterday after Japan ambassador to Malaysia Noriyuki Shikata toured P2’s Sg Choh base, reported by Bernama.

Zainal revealed that for the Ativa Hybrid project, Perodua received about 1.5 billion yen (over RM37 million) from the Global South Fund to support Japanese hybrid technology in Malaysia.

Led by Japan’s Ministry of Economy Trade and Industry (METI), the latter is a subsidy for initiatives that encourage partnerships in fields like renewable energy, digital technology and infrastructure, aimed at developing countries in the Global South. Securing the grant helps Perodua reduce costs for what would be its first ever hybrid model.

If you recall, back in 2023, before an EV project was thrust upon Perodua, the market leader was lining up hybrid as its next step, and Zainal said that P2’s first hybrid will be a variant (as opposed to a standalone model like the Toyota Prius) in a full model change a.k.a. all-new next-generation model. FMC rules out the Ativa as a host, so it looks like plans have changed since – perhaps the grant has something to do with it.

The Ativa Hybrid offered to 300 subscribers in September 2022 was a CBU import, essentially a rebadged Daihatsu Rocky e-Smart Hybrid. It is powered by a 106 PS/170 Nm electric motor (Ativa 1.0T has 98 PS/140 Nm), with a 82 PS/105 Nm 1.2-litre WA-VEX Atkinson-cycle three-cylinder naturally aspirated engine acting purely acts as a generator for the hybrid battery. This is akin to Nissan’s e-Power system in the Kicks.

The e-motor powers the wheels via an HEV transaxle, which means that this series hybrid model works somewhat like a range extender electric vehicle. Unlike Honda’s e:HEV hybrids, there’s no direct drive connecting the ICE and the wheels, although in practice, the 1.2L engine – when active – does feel directly connected to throttle movements. Note that Daihatsu’s e-Smart is a different system from the Toyota Hybrid System used in the Vios Hybrid and Yaris Cross Hybrid.

The Rocky Hybrid’s claimed fuel consumption is 3.6 litres per 100 km on the WLTP cycle, which translates to 27.8 km/l. When it launched the subscription plan, Perodua said that the Ativa Hybrid is capable of 31.3 km/l in a ‘Malaysian Driving Cycle’, which is supposed to reflect local driving conditions.

With local production, there’s room for Perodua to introduce its own design changes and suspension tune, so the eventual Rawang-made Ativa Hybrid might end up looking like the regular ICE Ativa with small cues to differentiate the electrified variant. The CBU car was a straightforward rebadge, and aside from badging, the only local items were Perodua’s head unit and key fob. We’ve detailed all the differences here.

How much will it be? For context, the 1.0-litre turbo Ativa is priced from RM62,500 to RM73,400. The Daihatsu Rocky Hybrid was launched in Indonesia in July 2025 initially as a CBU Japan model (now CKD), priced at the equivalent of RM76k then.

In my experience, the e-Smart Hybrid can achieve 25 km/l without much effort, and that’s already around 10 km/l better than my ICE Ativa (I’m averaging between 14 to 16 km/l these days) in the same routine. A fantastic car to maximise your Budi95 quota, if you can live with the compact size. What do you think of upcoming Perodua Ativa Hybrid?

GALLERY: Perodua Ativa Hybrid, CBU

The post Perodua Ativa Hybrid finally confirmed for Malaysia, 4 years after CBU subs trial – full local production, sales appeared first on Paul Tan's Automotive News.

The Malaysian road transport department (JPJ) is working on the implementation of the Automated Number Plate Recognition Integrated Enforcement Project (ANPR P-B). The 36-month pilot project will involve the use of 375 ANPR cameras, 1,000 smart management enforcement devices (SmED) and the development of a control centre in Cyberjaya, although when the project will begin is yet to be confirmed.

“This system allows various traffic offences to be automatically detected including involving LKM (road tax), insurance, VEP (Vehicle Entry Permit), Road Charge as well as offences involving mobile phone use, running red lights and emergency lane (misuse),” JPJ director-general Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli said.

Earlier this year, transport minister Anthony Loke said that the JPJ should adopt ANPR tech to replace roadblocks for enforcement purposes. “I don’t want to see JPJ setting up roadblocks after toll plazas, turning six lanes into one. People will get angry. That’s an outdated approach. JPJ must also change and adopt smarter methods,” he said then.

In 2016, Johor became the first state in Malaysia to use ANPR for vehicle enforcement, while last year, Penang began using it for parking payment enforcement. Enforcement aside, ANPR is of course used at many Klang Valley locations (especially malls) for parking payment, and PLUS is piloting it for toll collection on a stretch of the North-South Highway.

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The debate between consumers enjoying cheap imported EVs from China versus protecting the local automotive industry isn’t unique to Malaysia. While we’re having a debate here, a coalition of 10 automotive associations representing more than 1,500 operators in Thailand is lobbying for the government to raise taxes for CBU EVs to protect the Thai automotive ecosystem.

According to a report by The Nation, The Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand (EVAT), the Thai Auto-Parts Manufacturers Association (TAPMA) and allied industry groups will submit emergency proposals to the government today, May 14, asking for a raise in excise tax on CBU EVs to at least 32%, as part of measures to stabilise Thailand’s auto and parts industries.

The group of stakeholders warned that Thailand’s automotive industry is facing its ‘most serious crisis’ as the country shifts towards EVs. It said the a rapid transition to EVs, combined with the cost advantage of CBU imported models from China, could ‘severely weaken local production and threaten the survival of Thai auto-parts manufacturers’.

It added that producing vehicles in Thailand costs around 30% to 40% more than importing similar cars from China, and this puts local manufacturers and parts suppliers at a disadvantage. As such, the associations want the excise tax on CBU EVs to be raised to at least 32%, creating a 30-percentage-point gap with domestically produced EVs, which are currently subject to a 2% excise tax.

The group reasons that the higher tax would help offset the cost gap between CKD and CBU EVs, while encouraging carmakers to continue investing in local production. The call for the government to introduce stronger replacement measures is amidst fear that once Thailand’s current ‘EV 3.5’ support scheme ends next year, Chinese carmakers will revert to importing CBU EVs instead of continuing production in Thailand.

The coalition is also proposing a ‘carrot’ in the form of an import quota system linked directly to local production. Under the proposal, companies that make genuine investments in vehicle production in Thailand would be allowed to import CBU EVs at the existing lower excise tax rate of 10%. The quota would be capped at no more than 10% of each company’s production volume, however.

Finally, the group is also seeking for an 80% local content rule, with the figure referring to a vehicle’s value. They’re seeking a revised calculation method to close loopholes, adding that the current system should be tightened to prevent profits or labour costs from being counted in ways that ‘weaken the intended support for Thai parts manufacturers’.

This is what the parties affected by the Chinese EV wave want, so now the ball is in the Thai government’s court to balance the promotion of EVs with the need to protect domestic manufacturing, jobs and the country’s well-established auto-parts supply chain.

It’s a fact that local production – whether in Thailand, Malaysia, ASEAN or anywhere else in the world – will be costlier than what Chinese OEMs can achieve back home, and if these carmakers have a choice, it’ll be CBU, as exports also help ease the massive (and often excess) capacity that they’ve built in China. If a country has an automotive industry to protect, the only thing that can stop the tsunami is a seawall in the form of tariffs and duties. That is what Malaysia has done with MITI’s recent move to raise the barrier for CBU EVs – we’ve covered this topic extensively, and you can read more here.

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The fourth-generation GN2/GN6 Honda City is set to receive its second facelift since it was revealed back in late 2019. An image of the refreshed B-segment sedan, due to be revealed in India next week, May 22, was posted by Financial Times reporter Akbar Merchant on X.

Clear to see on this undisguised example is the radical new front fascia, giving the car an aggressively sporty look. Sharp headlights with quad eyebrow-style daytime running lights sit atop a full-width honeycomb grille seemingly inspired by the Civic Type R, with the H badge being moved to the top portion of the bumper; there also appears to be a light strip joining the lamps.

To make space for the repositioned “lambang H”, the chrome/gloss black strip of the current model has been refinished in body colour for a sleeker, more streamlined look. Meanwhile, the lower bumper gets a wide upturned air intake that is visually connected to the vertical corner inlets, reminiscent of the plug-in hybrid BYD Seal 6 DM-i (a Japanese car copying a Chinese design? My, how the tables have turned…).

Also visible in this image are the redesigned alloy wheels with a new turbine-style aero look. The rear end is not shown, but past spyshots from Brazil have shown a rump that will be largely unchanged, saved for a reworked bumper with vertical reflectors. We can also expect a new dashboard and upgraded tech to go with the revamped exterior, which would help the City regain lost ground to Chinese SUV rivals.

Despite the significant redesign, the City will likely soldier on with the same engines as before. In Malaysia, these include a 121 PS/145 Nm 1.5 litre DOHC i-VTEC naturally-aspirated four-cylinder mated to a CVT, as well as an e:HEV hybrid that pairs a 109 PS/253 Nm electric motor with a 98 PS/127 Nm Atkinson-cycle mill and a single-speed hybrid transmission.

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Japanese oil giant Eneos has announced it has struck a deal with Chevron to acquire 100% of the US firm’s Southeast Asian downstream fuels and lubricants business, including in Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Australia, Vietnam and Indonesia. As part of the arrangement, Eneos will take over the more than 450 Caltex petrol stations in Malaysia.

Despite this, Caltex’s highly-recognisable red and green star will not suddenly be replaced by orange Eneos branding, as it has emerged that Eneos will retain the last remnants of the California Texas Oil Company. “The Caltex brand, built and nurtured by Chevron over many decades, is an exceptionally important business asset, and we are fully committed not only to preserving its value, but to elevating it further,” said Eneos director and CEO Miyata Tomohide.

Eneos purchased the downstream business – including Chevron Singapore’s 50% non-operated stake in the Singapore Refining Company (SRC) – through a Singaporean special purpose vehicle (SPV). The transaction, worth US$2.17 billion (RM8.5 billion), is set to be completed in 2027, subject to regulatory approvals and closing conditions.

“Today’s agreement reflects Chevron’s disciplined approach to managing our international portfolio. We are proud of what our people have built over 90 years of serving customers and supporting communities across the Asia Pacific region through the trusted Caltex brand.

“Chevron is committed to supporting an orderly transition as our teams prepare to join Eneos, a valued partner with whom we have a long-standing commercial relationship and strong confidence in the continued success of the Caltex brand across the region,” said Chevron’s downstream, midstream and chemicals president Andy Walz.

Tomohide added: “This investment represents a significant step in strengthening the business platform that connects Japan with Southeast Asia and Oceania, while bringing together the competitive strengths developed across each market to advance our group’s growth to the next stage. Looking ahead, we will draw fully on the expertise, networks, and business foundations cultivated in each market to further enhance our fuel products business and trading capabilities.”

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The Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) returns in 2026 as the premier platform to showcase the latest innovations, designs and technologies in the automotive sphere. Set to take place at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) from June 12-21, KLIMS 2026 is where you’ll learn more about the current state of mobility in Malaysia as well as what comes next.

With a large number of brands participating, get up close with the latest models, including new product launches scheduled to take place at KLIMS 2026. Test drives are available for over 50 cars, so you can experience your next new car first-hand before making a decision. There will also be previews of upcoming models and concepts so you know what to look forward to in the future.

Additionally, KLIMS 2026 will feature interactive activities such as ‘Urban Play’, a custom-built obstacle course from June 12-14. There will also be driving simulators and remote-control car tracks, while on June 13 and 14, the KLIMS Modified Car Battle is where owners compete to win prizes in various categories.

To keep the entertainment going, the DJ Playground is where DJs will perform and compete, with mini concerts also set to take place on the weekends of KLIMS 2026. The latter will see local artists perform on the first weekend, while the second weekend will feature performances curated by Riuh, including acts by Anuar Zain, Jemput Dengar, No Noise Percussion, FUGŌ and more. On Awal Muharram (June 17), former member of V.E., Lah Ahmad, will take the stage.

There’s more too, as KLIMS 2026 is collaborating with the Sepang International Circuit to showcase a range of race cars and bikes as well as meet and greet sessions with racers. A number of car clubs will also be gathered at the event, and diecast enthusiasts can check out a curated collection.

Tickets for KLIMS 2026 are available right now, with pricing being RM30 on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays for adults (12 years and above), while it is RM15 for both senior citizens (60 years and above) and disabled persons. For students with a valid ID, they can get a ticket at a flat rate of just RM15.

Given the sheer scale of KLIMS 2026 with the number of exhibits and activities available, a single visit certainly won’t be enough. As such, if you’re planning for multiple trips, take advantage of the unlimited access pass that grants you entry for all ten days for just RM80. Should you want to share the KLIMS 2026 experience with your family or friends, there’s also a five-pax bundle pass available at just RM100.

For more info on KLIMS 2026, head on over to the event’s official website and look out for updates on the official KLIMS Facebook, TikTok and Instagram pages.

The post Test drive over 50 cars and experience the latest in mobility at KLIMS 2026 – from June 12-21 at MITEC appeared first on Paul Tan's Automotive News.

JPJ has announced that NEL and CFH are the next number plate series to go up for bidding on its online auction platform, JPJ eBid.

Negeri Sembilan’s latest running number series is ‘NEL’, and it opens for tender on May 18. The bidding period on JPJeBid is five days, ending 10pm on May 22. As usual, the results will be out the following day. The whole process is online now, as it has been for some time, and bidders will get the good (or bad) news via email.

Also available on JPJ eBid is the Pahang series ‘CFH’. The bidding period starts on May 22, and will close at 10pm on May 26. Results will be out the day after the auction closes.

New car coming soon and want a nice number plate for the new ride? Why not DIY and skip the reseller’s markup and runner fees? If you have never bid for a number yourself, check out our step-by-step guide on how to navigate JPJ eBid and the techniques needed to get your preferred number at “retail price”.

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Honda is talking quite a big game for a carmaker reeling from a massive EV fiasco. At its business briefing in Japan today, the company revealed its three-year rebuilding plan that aims to turn around what was its first annual loss in its 70-year history to record profits by 2029.

Instrumental to its revival is the funnelling of investments previously earmarked for EVs towards hybrid vehicles that are currently in demand. A total of 15 such models are set to be launched between 2027 to 2029, primarily in their priority market, the US. There, Honda will introduce D-segment and larger hybrid cars from 2029 onwards.

One of these new models was shown off today in the form of the Hybrid Sedan Prototype, a sleek fastback four-door that will go on sale in the next two years. It sports the new H logo as well as in-vogue split headlights with quad eyebrow-style daytime running lights, a large trapezoidal lower grille, flush pull-up door handles and a sloping roofline that stretches all the way to the back. The car was displayed next to the Acura Hybrid SUV Prototype that aims to rejuvenate Honda’s premium brand in the US.

While being the focus of the plan, North America won’t be the sole benefactor of all the new cars, with Japan also set to gain the N-Box EV next year to join the N-Van and N-One e:. Honda has also confirmed that an all-new HR-V (badged as the Vezel in Japan) will be launched in 2028, featuring the next generation of the firm’s hybrid powertrain and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

In India, Honda will debut new “strategic” models starting in 2028, in both the country’s popular sub-four-metre segment and the mid-size market. The cars are part of the company’s push to upsell customers from its motorcycle arm, which sells nearly six million two-wheelers in the South Asian country annually.

All these new models will benefit from Honda’s “Triple Half” that aims to halve development costs, timeframes and workload compared to 2025 levels. The company will cut costs by using standardised parts and reassessing its in-house standards, taking a leaf out of the playbooks of its Chinese and Indian rivals.

This will go hand-in-hand with shorter development lead times, starting with minor model changes (facelifts) this year and full model changes from 2028 onwards. Honda also plans to improve production efficiency over the next five years by more efficiently allocating resource investments in new models and equipment.

Honda is also striving to reduce costs on its next-generation hybrids by more than 30% compared to its current e:HEV system introduced in 2023. This is despite the company targeting a ten per cent fuel economy improvement with this powertrain, in combination with its next-gen platform and electric all-wheel drive.

The HR-V’s next-gen ADAS features are also set to be introduced in 2028, with 15 models set to gain the system over the next five years. Meanwhile, the Asimo OS infotainment system originally slated to debut on the now-cancelled 0 Series of EVs will instead make its way to hybrid models.

More flexible and strategic resource utilisation will extend to relying on external suppliers, with Honda pausing in-house battery production and instead retooling L-H Battery – its EV battery joint venture with LG in Ohio – to build hybrid batteries. In China, the company will leverage its partnerships with local carmakers and build new energy vehicles (NEVs) on their platforms, similar to what Nissan is doing.

The turnaround plan will benefit from the restructuring announced in February, with Honda’s R&D division reabsorbing the Automobile Development Operations and the Automobile Operations units that were spun off in 2020. This creates better integration, enabling the company to more quickly respond to changing market conditions. It also discontinued the development of software-defined vehicles (SDVs), with the changes having taken effect on April 1.

These changes were needed given the quagmire Honda found itself after cancelling its 0 Series EVs in March, just months before the cars were due to launch in the US. The decision was made in response to unfavourable US tariffs and the decline in the company’s competitiveness in Asia; nevertheless, the need to draw down its EV investments resulted in an annual loss of 414.3 billion yen (RM10.3 billion) in the preceding financial year ending March 31.

With this revamp, Honda aims to resolve its EV-related losses within the 2028 financial year, aiming to post record operating profits of over 1.4 trillion yen (RM34.8 billion) come March 31, 2029. It is also working on returning to its long-standing return on invested capital (ROIC) target of 10% by 2031.

Despite the dramatic scaling back of its EV ambitions, Honda has not turned its back on these vehicles, pledging to invest a maximum of 800 billion yen (RM19.9 billion) on a “highly-competitive EV hardware platform” and solid-state batteries to be ready for demand when it eventually resurfaces. This investment, however, will be dwarfed by the one trillion yen (RM24.9 billion) it is putting into software technologies and a whopping 4.4 trillion yen (RM62 billion) into petrol and hybrid vehicles

The post Honda Hybrid Sedan Prototype part of post-EV fiasco rebuild plan; 2028 HR-V to get next-gen hybrid, ADAS appeared first on Paul Tan's Automotive News.

Malaysia’s electric vehicle (EV) policy, set by the ministry of international trade and industry (MITI), is designed not just to protect national carmakers Proton and Perodua, but to develop the local automotive industry. The aim is to encourage EV makers to set up operations in Malaysia and work more with local suppliers, deputy MITI minister Sim Tze Tzin said.

“We want foreign manufacturers to collaborate with our local vendors in the ecosystem so that they can enhance their capabilities, move up the value chain and position Malaysia to become an exporter of automotive components and parts while also preparing for the future of autonomous driving,” he told reporters on the sidelines of the 2nd Asean Automotive and Mobility Conference this week, reported by The Edge.

In his opening speech at the event, Sim said that the government’s focus is on building a ‘complete ecosystem’ encompassing manufacturing, supply chains, infrastructure, talent and innovation. He pointed out that Malaysia’s automotive sector contributed an estimated RM80 billion to RM95 billion to the country’s GDP in 2025 and employed more than 750,000 people.

The Bayan Baru MP added that Perodua works with about 190 vendors while Proton has a network of 116 vendors, and together, the OEMs spend almost RM15 billion on local parts. Malaysia currently has over 640 automotive parts manufacturers, including between 150 and 180 Tier 1 suppliers serving both local and foreign carmakers.

This is now a hot topic because of MITI’s new regulation for CBU fully imported EVs, which raises the entry barrier in two areas – declared CIF value (cost, insurance and freight) of no less than RM200,000 and minimum power output of 180 kW (245 PS), effective July 1. CIF is before tax and margins, and we expect RRPs for CBU EVs to be at least RM300,000 in the best case scenario.

And that is if the imported EV clears 180 kW output hurdle in the first place. Combined, these two requirements will ‘push out’ a swathe of mid-range CBU EVs, leaving only CKD models and premium CBU options. Ready stock and cars that are in transit are exempted from this new rule. You can read more about it here.

Sim rejects concerns that the new effective minimum price for imported EVs will limit access to cheaper models. “If they want to price EVs between RM100,000 and RM200,000, they can work together with contract manufacturers to manufacture here,” he said. Coupled with MITI’s regulations for new factories, does the government then prefer OEMs to partner with local contract assembly operators over establishing their own plants?

Clearly, that the brand that will be the most impacted by this move is BYD, which entire range is imported from China. The carmakers knew full well that their easy CBU EV business model would one day be no longer viable – as such, some have started CKD, many have at least expressed their intention to locally assemble, and a few are starting soon.

BYD too has CKD plans, but it hit a snag recently when MITI announced new regulations for car factories. In a March 31 statement, MITI minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani said that BYD (and all new EV plants after September 2025) will have to abide by a floor price of RM100k, an output split of 80% export/20% domestic sales, and the mandatory inclusion of a paint shop, which is a costly element in a car factory and a sign of ‘serious work’ being done there, so to speak.

Failure to meet any of the newly imposed regulations would mean that BYD would not be issued a manufacturing license to run a CKD operation. It’s clear that the most challenging item on the list is the 80% export requirement, which is unrealistic for BYD as it already has CKD plants in both Thailand and Indonesia, never mind the huge capacity the company has back home in China.

MITI’s statement on March 31 said that these conditions are not unique to BYD, are non-discriminatory and are applicable to all regardless of brands and countries of origin. It applies to all new automotive investments in Malaysia beginning September 2025, “except those using existing local assembly facilities”. Conversely, this also means that existing CKD operations can run without a local paint shop, which Proton eMas and EPMB both do not have.

Going back to Sim’s contract manufacturer suggestion, it’s a path that a couple of Chinese brands have gone down o late. Most recently, MG rolled off its S5 EV from EPMB’s Melaka plant, which also counts GWM, BAIC and Xpeng as clients. The Inokom plant in Kulim, Kedah – owned by BYD’s local partner Sime Motors – assembles EVs for Chery and BMW – will it have excess capacity to support BYD?

If not, could BYD and Sime/Inokom work together to build a fresh plant nearby, while using the local party’s manufacturing license? If MITI allows this, it could well be a potential off-ramp for the impasse between carmaker and government. There’s the small matter of the Tanjong Malim land that BYD has already secured – small change for the Shenzhen-based EV giant surely.

Anyway, here’s a list of possible EV contract assembly partnerships to our knowledge, based on what’s already established, or the current relationship between carmaker and assembler in the ICE realm.

• BAIC/Arcfox – previously signed with EPMB
• BMW/MINI – Inokom
• Changan – rumoured to be Berjaya Assembly, formerly the Oriental plant in Johor
• Dongfeng – previously signed an MoU with NexV, but no word since Neta’s collapse
• GAC Aion – Tan Chong
• GWM – EPMB with the G9 PHEV, but its EVs are still CBU
• Honda – own plant in Melaka, partnering DRB-Hicom, but no plans to CKD EVs
• Hyundai/Kia – Inokom, but no plans to CKD EVs
• Jetour – Berjaya Assembly, but no plans for CKD EVs so far
• Leapmotor – Stellantis’ own plant in Gurun, Kedah. Ex-Naza plant
• Mazda – Inokom, but no plans for CKD EVs
• Mercedes-Benz – DRB-Hicom in Pekan, Pahang
• MG – EPMB
• Nissan – Tan Chong’s own plants in Segambut and Serendah, but no CKD EV plans
• Perodua – own plant in Sg Choh, with plans to purchase or contact assemble at Tan Chong Serendah
• Peugeot – Stellantis’ own plant in Gurun, but no CKD EV plans
• Porsche – Inokom, but no plans for CKD EVs
• Proton – own dedicated EV assembly plant in Tanjong Malim
• Toyota – UMW, now under Sime. But no CKD EV plans
• Volkswagen – DRB, but no CKD EV plans
• Volvo – own plant in Shah Alam
• Wuling – Tan Chong Segambut
• Xpeng – EPMB

We didn’t include the Chery Group above as it deserves special mention. They had the Chery Omoda E5 rolling out from Inokom in Kulim, and the group currently operates its own plant in Shah Alam – the iCaur 03 will soon be CKD assembled here.

There’s more. Chery is building a new factory in Lembah Beringin, Hulu Selangor. It was granted a manufacturing license without the T&Cs imposed on BYD, as the Wuhu carmaker had signed the agreement before the September 2025 cut-off date, according to MITI. The same applies to all existing car plants in Malaysia.

Finally, Zeekr. The Geely-owned premium brand has announced that it will set up its own assembly plant in Tanjong Malim, with the CKD 7X expected to be rolled out in 2027 at the earliest. It remains to be seen if Zeekr is subject to the same new factory requirements as BYD, or if it will be allowed to operate under stablemate Proton’s ‘umbrella’.

The post MITI now wants EV makers to have local partners – contract assembly vs building own new factories? appeared first on Paul Tan's Automotive News.

As reported last month, the Foton Tunland is back – and this time, not under a pseudonym. The Chinese pick-up truck arrives under the distributorship of Handal BCM, which also handles Foton’s light trucks and vans, as well as the Kaicene (Changan) and Golden Dragon brands.

Two models will be offered – the Tunland V7 with an estimated price of RM128,888 and the Tunland V9 at RM148,888 estimated. Previewed at the Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Exhibition (MCVE) at the Mines International Exhibition and Convention Centre (MIECC), these are set to be launched sometime next week, both coming with an impressive seven-year/200,000 km warranty.

Despite what their names suggest, the two trucks are essentially identical underneath. Both measure 5,617 mm long, 2,090 mm wide and 1,955 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 3,355 mm. This makes them a whopping 292 mm longer, 190 mm wider and 140 mm taller than the current eighth-generation Toyota Hilux, meaning that the Foton models are actually halfway towards full-size pick-ups such as the Ford F-150.

Even so, their payload rating of 895 kg is lower than the one-tonne standard of most mid-sized trucks, likely due to the V9 coming with a coil-sprung solid rear axle (the V7 gets conventional leaf springs but retains the same max payload). Their 3,500 kg towing capacity is at least equal to rivals.

Both Tunlands also get the same powertrain – an Aucan 4F20 2.0 litre four-cylinder turbodiesel developed with Cummins, featuring a variable geometry turbo (VGT) and a 48-volt mild hybrid system. Outputs are rated at 163 PS at 3,600 rpm and 400 Nm of torque from 1,500 to 2,400 rpm, with an additional 12 PS and 50 Nm of accelerative boost coming from the electric motor. Fuel consumption is rated at 8.1 litres per 100 km.

This setup is mated to an eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive with a BorgWarner low range transfer case, with the V9 adding a rear locking differential and electric power steering instead of the V7’s hydraulic assistance. Both come with six drive modes – including Sand, Mud and Snow for off-road driving – and both the drivetrain and drive mode settings are selectable through rotary knobs.

Instead, the differences are mainly visual and spec-related. The V7 gets vertical dual-projector LED headlights and a large upright grille reminiscent of the aforementioned F-150, while the V9’s front end is practically a facsimile of the Ram 1500, with its horizontal headlights and TRX-style trapezoidal grille. Both come with fake fender vents, chunky door handles and F-150-esque triangular taillights.

The V9 adds full-width LED taillights, roof rails, a sports bar, black fender flares and nicer-looking side steps. Both come with a bed liner and a tailgate damper, but only the V9 has a deployable step built into the tailgate – another feature lifted from full-sized trucks. The wheels are 18-inch black alloys, featuring a “leisure” design for the V7 and a “sport” design for the V9.

Inside, the V7 and V9 feature a modern design with a horizontal dashboard design, full physical air-con control toggles, a wide centre console and an inverted U-shaped silver trim piece inspired by yacht throttle levers, housing the centre air vents. The V7 you see here comes with analogue dials with a multi-info display, but local units should get the same 12.3-inch instrument display as the V9, paired with a 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay.

Elsewhere, the trucks get a folding rear bench, which exposes the lithium-ion mild hybrid battery; the 60:40-split seat bases can also tip up to enable users to carry tall items, similar to the Ultra Seats on the Honda City Hatchback and HR-V. Rear air-con vents also come standard.

The differences in kit are rather small in nature. Both models come with tilt and telescopic steering adjustment, a ten-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and faux leather upholstery, but only the V9 gains a four-way powered passenger seat. The V9 is also the only one to get a panoramic sunroof, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, a 220-volt rear power outlet and twin rear USB-A ports.

The rest of the V7’s kit list includes keyless entry, push-button start, manual-folding door mirrors, ambient lighting, cruise control, auto air con, four speakers, rear parking sensors and a reverse camera. The V9 adds dual-zone air con with built-in purification, heated door mirrors, six speakers, a 360-degree camera system with a transparency function and front sensors. Even the rear windscreen defogger is exclusive to the V9.

One area where the V7 loses out massively to the V9 is safety. It gets just two airbags to go with the standard stability control and hill descent control, whereas the V9 comes with the full complement of six airbags, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane centring assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, a camera-based driving attention monitor and auto high beam.

The Tunland V7 and V9 will arrive as limited CBU units first under a CKD bridging programme as per MITI regulations, before local assembly kicks off in Johor in the fourth quarter of the year. Foton is also showing an eTunland – based on the smaller Tunland G7 – at MCVE to gauge public interest in the electric truck, while petrol plug-in hybrid models are also on the cards for later on.

GALLERY: Foton Tunland V7 at MCVE 2026
GALLERY: Foton Tunland V9 at MCVE 2026

The post 2026 Foton Tunland V7, V9 Malaysia preview – Chinese mild hybrid pick-up, Ford/Ram styling, fr RM129k est appeared first on Paul Tan's Automotive News.

Geely has claimed its maiden victory in the top-tier FIA TCR World Tour in just the first round of the brand’s first season with a Geely Preface TCR piloted by Chinese racing driver Ma Qinghua. Coincidentally, Ma (马) means horse, alluding to the engine under the bonnet.

Ma won Race 2 of the opening round of the 2026 TCR World Tour at Italy’s Misano circuit last weekend, after starting the race on Sunday from third place under reverse grid rules that took into account the results of Saturday’s race. He took second place as soon as he entered the first corner of the first lap.

Ma fiercely fought Briton Jenson Brickley’s Honda Civic Type R TCR and Spaniard Mikel Azcona‘s Hyundai Elantra N TCR of the BRC Hyundai N Squadra Corse team to win the 15-lap race.

Azcona finished second, while third place went to another Geely driver, Sweden’s Thed Bjork. Actually, Geely also took its first podium position earlier in Race 1 when another of its French racers, Yann Ehrlacher, finished third.

Geely announced its TCR World Tour championship participation at the end of last year. The programme is run by Swedish racing firm Cyan Racing, which previously developed Volvo Polestar racing and road cars, and participated in the TCR World Tour from 2019 until last year with Geely sub-brand Lynk & Co.

Over the course of seven years, Lynk & Co Cyan Racing has won six world championships in the manufacturer category and three world championships in the driver category in the FIA ​​TCR World Tour.

No official details have been revealed on the new Geely Preface TCR, but it’s likely a derivative of the previous Lynk & Co 03 TCR. Both the Preface and 03 are based on Volvo’s CMA platform.

The road-going versions of both models use Volvo’s 2.0 litre four-cylinder turbo Drive-E engine, which is manufactured by Sweden’s Aurobay. This company is now a division of Horse Powertrain, which is equally owned by Geely and Renault.

Race cars built to FIA TCR specification must be based on the same bodyshell and 2.0 litre four-cylinder turbo engine as the production road cars. Therefore, the championship is only contested by models that are homologated from performance models such as the Hyundai Elantra N and Honda Civic Type R.

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