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It’s nice that Mercedes-AMG has delivered a timely reminder of what makes performance cars so captivating: here, newly launched in Malaysia, is a low-slung coupe with a long bonnet and a serious engine. Enter the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4Matic+ Coupe, the flagship of the somewhat unsung (C236) CLE lineup priced at an equally serious RM722,888 on-the-road without insurance. At roughly RM100k less dear than the local-spec M4 Competition, should BMW be a little rattled? 

In case you missed it, the CLE made its global debut in 2023, created to replace both the C-Class and E-Class Coupe/Cabriolet ranges. Rather than splitting the two-door offerings across different lines, Mercedes-Benz unified them under one nameplate. The CLE is described as “the best of two worlds: the agility and sportiness of the C-Class with the space and status of the E-Class.” That said, in our opinion, the CLE is a weak substitute for either, especially in its initial launch guise of the CLE 300, evidenced by its tepid reception. The CLE 53, however, might shift the tone significantly.

Made to be the centrepiece of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia's AMG World Of Performance showcase, the CLE 53 definitely looks the part with distinctively aggressive AMG styling cues. Compared to the standard CLE, it features flared fenders, a more aggressive front apron with enlarged air intakes, and a wider stance – 58 mm broader at the front and 75 mm at the rear. The display car shown at launch came in a striking Manufaktur Spectral Blue magno matte finish, further enhanced by AMG’s Exterior Night Package, Night Package II with dark chrome trim, and an AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre Package.

Standard wheels are 19-inch alloys, but the Malaysian-spec CLE 53 is equipped with 20-inch AMG Y-spoke wheels finished in matte black, paired with red-painted brake calipers.
For buyers craving an even bolder appearance, the optional AMG Optics Package adds flics to the aprons, a pronounced boot lid spoiler lip, and a diffuser board between the circular tailpipe trims.

Dimensionally, compared with the C205 C-Class Coupe, it is 160 mm longer, 50 mm wider and 23 mm taller, with an extra 25 mm in wheelbase, bringing it closer to the former E-Class Coupe minus the charming quirks. That said, should AMG transform this into a real sledgehammer, it could be the M4 rival that many have been waiting to get their hands on.

Speaking of which, at the heart of the CLE 53 is a seemingly BMW-like powertrain formula, a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-6 cyclinder, which AMG calls the M256M. An evolution of Mercedes’ M256 unit, it produces 449 PS between 5,800 and 6,100 rpm. Torque is rated at 560 Nm from 2,200 to 5,000 rpm, with up to 600 Nm available in overboost mode for short bursts of up to 12 seconds.

Key upgrades to the M256M include revised combustion chambers, new piston rings, reworked inlet and outlet channels, and optimised injection. A larger exhaust gas turbocharger and an additional electric compressor raise boost pressure to 1.5 bar, enhancing response especially in mid-range speeds.

The engine is paired with a second-generation Integrated Starter Generator (ISG), embedded within the AMG Speedshift TCT 9G automatic gearbox. Operating within a 48-volt mild hybrid system, the ISG contributes up to 23 PS and 205 Nm in short burts, while also handling energy recuperation, coasting, smoother stop/start operation, and improves general efficiency.

Performance figures speak for themselves: 0–100 km/h is dispatched in just 4.2 seconds, with top speed limited to 250 km/h or 270 km/h with the AMG Driver’s Package optioned. For comparison, the entry-level CLE 300’s 2.0-litre turbo-four offer a far milder 259 PS and 400 Nm, good for a respectable 0–100 km/h time of 6.2 seconds. 

Still, to be fair, compared to the M4 Competition (from RM 878,800), the CLE 53 still falls short on pure numbers. The Bimmer boasts about 80PS and 90Nm more, and dispatches the century sprint in a supercar-matching 3.5 seconds. AMG hasn’t opted to build an M177-equipped variant of the CLE, so this is as high as the food chain goes. 

Still, it’s still plenty quick by conventional standards, and coupe sits on AMG Ride Control suspension with steel springs and adaptive dampers, offering three selectable modes – Comfort, Sport, and Sport+. Meanwhile, stopping power is delivered by ventilated and perforated discs: 370 mm front rotors with four-piston callipers, and 360 mm rear discs with single-piston floating callipers. For those who want more, the optional AMG Dynamic Plus Package adds active engine mounts, a ‘RACE’ driving mode, and even a CLA 45 S style Drift Mode for some extra sideways action.

Inside, the CLE 53 combines AMG-specific design with the latest iteration of Benz’s MBUX touch-oriented interface. The system includes a 12.3-inch fully digital driver display and an 11.9-inch portrait-style central touchscreen, both offering AMG-exclusive graphics, telemetry data, and performance-focused functions via AMG Track Pace.

Seats are AMG Performance units finished in Artico man-made leather (still??) and Microcut microfibre, with integrated headrests and contrasting red seatbelts. Being more a luxury grand tourer, though, they’ve also left it with a panoramic glass roof, ambient lighting with logo projection, and powered seat feeders for the seatbelts. Other highlights include a Burmester 3D surround sound system, head-up display, and advanced driving assistance features come as standard.

While much of the industry pivots toward rampant electrification, the CLE 53 serves as a reminder of what AMG has long stood for: expressive design, cutting-edge technology, and visceral performance. Some might argue the lack of a brutish AMG V8, but it may be one of the last few models to pair a traditional straight-six engine with modern hybrid assistance, making it as much a statement of intent as it is a driver’s car.

Launching today is the Chery O5, which Malaysians are already familiar with under the name it initially launched as, the Chery Omoda 5. The new name belies the fact that, yes, this version is the updated facelift of that model, and brings with it some welcome updates to the B-segment SUV. It now comes in a single high-spec variant at a priced at RM116,800.

The O5 comes included with a 7-year, 150,000km vehicle warranty as well as 5 years of free labour and servicing. However, as per usual with products here from the Chery Group, early bird buyers will get a 10-year, 1,000,000km warranty as well as 4-years of free servicing inclusive of parts and labour.

This facelift of the O5 was first seen revealed in Russia in 2024 before making its way wider into the world, and the first obvious thing to have changed is the front end as well as some other areas of its exterior design.

Interestingly, the Chery O5 now subjectively takes the place of a more subdued option for those in the market for smaller SUV, with the top spot obviously occupied by its recently launched primary competitor, the Proton X50. That said, it will be interesting to see how buyers will react when presented with the option between the O5 and its B-segment stablemate, the Tiggo Cross, which one can argue presents even better value, if less flash.

And yes, despite being called the Chery O5, it will still bear the ‘Omoda’ branding on its badging despite the Omoda C9 being sold under Omoda-Jaecoo Malaysia, as will the upcoming Omoda C7 previewed locally a few months ago. The O5’s front end is more subdued, clearly taking some cues from the Omoda E5, effectively deleting the red accents on the pre-facelift model. There’s also a new set of 18-inch alloy wheels.

At the rear, not much has changed. The design remains identical to the original Omoda 5 launched in 2023 replete with full-width tail lights, the prominent OMODA script, and twin fake tailpipe finishers.

Spec-wise, it’s looking like a mirror of the car in Indonesian-spec, where it’s called the Chery C5. Under the bonnet, we find the same 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine from before, which is also being used to power the Jetour Dashing. It produces 156PS and 230Nm, but now mated to a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) instead of the CVT fitted previously. Its roadholding capabilities should also be improved thanks to a new multi-link rear suspension replacing the outgoing car’s torsion beam.

Stepping inside, Chery has left the cabin almost entirely unaltered in terms of layout, aesthetics, and equipment. Standard far includes a leatherette upholstery, dual 10.25-inch screens for driver’s display and infotainment duties, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic air conditioning (the Tiggo Cross has dual-zone climate as standard), a wireless smartphone charger, and Sony audio.

The O5 will also be fitted with Level 2 ADAS functionality which includes things such as autonomous emergency braking, lane centring assist, rear cross traffic alert, blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise with stop-and-go. Additionally, there’s a 540-degree camera system and 6 airbags.

iCaur is ready to make its mark on the Malaysian electric vehicle landscape with the arrival of its first model, the all-electric iCaur 03, which was originally showcased in Malaysia in 2024 under its global name, the Jaecoo J6 (where it’s also sold in Singapore as). Since then, it also made an appearance at this year’s Malaysia Auto Show, finally launching at a starting price of RM119,800. Customers will be able to choose between 2 versions of the iCaur 03: a 2WD variant and a more powerful AWD variant. 

• iCaur 03 2WD - RM119,800
• iCaur 03 iWD - RM129,800

iCaur has confirmed that the first few batches of the 03 to arrive for sale in Malaysian showrooms will do so as fully imported units. However, CKD operations for 03 are due to commence in January of 2026 in Chery’s Shah Alam plant alongside the J7 and J8.

Positioned as a semi-premium EV offering but equally as an off-road ready lifestyle vehicle, the boxy 03 doesn’t exactly fit the usual modern SUV mould from the exterior. Measuring 4,406 mm in length, 1,910 mm in width, and 1,715 mm in height, it sits on a 2,715 mm wheelbase and tips the scales at 1,874 kg.

Its upright, squared-off styling gives it a distinctive presence on the road compared to the sleeker shapes of many rivals. Five colours are available — Silver, Grey, White, Black, and the signature Aurora Green.

The entry-level iCaur 03 2WD is equipped with a rear-mounted electric motor delivering 184 PS (181 hp or 135 kW) and 220 Nm of torque, drawing power from a 65.69 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery. On the NEDC cycle, it promises up to 426 km of range, which translates to roughly 355 km under the more realistic WLTP standard.

For those seeking more performance, the iCaur 03 AWD (termed as iWD) features a dual-motor setup that combines a 95 PS front motor with the same 184 PS rear motor used in the 2WD, resulting in a total output of 279 PS (275 hp or 205 kW) and 385 Nm.

This configuration also enables the SUV to sprint from 0–100 km/h in 6.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 150 km/h. The AWD is also supplied by a larger 69.77 kWh LFP battery, offering 418 km NEDC range or about 342 km WLTP, similar to figures reported in Singapore for the Jaecoo J6.

Both variants support DC fast charging up to 80 kW, enabling a 30–80% charge in around 30 minutes. AC charging is rated at 6.6 kW, and owners will also benefit from a 3.3 kW vehicle-to-load (V2L) function, allowing the car’s battery to power external devices—a useful feature for camping or emergencies, given the 03’s marketed use cases.

We did already know quite a bit in terms of specification and equipment levels regarding the iCaur, both from its previous local appearances/previews as well as the (unchanged) version we briefly drove last year in China. 

The cabin will feature a 15.6-inch infotainment display, paired with a 9.2-inch digital instrument cluster and an Infinity 12-speaker premium audio system. Driving dynamics can be adjusted through the iRoad suite, which offers six selectable drive modes. In terms of practicality, the boot offers up to 450-litres of cargo capacity with the rear seats left up, but with them folded you'll have 1,238-litres.

There's no frunk but this there a 40L storage box taking the form of what looks like a spare wheel cover on the tailgate. 

Aside from the dual-motor setup and slightly bigger battery, the iWD variant also receives larger 19-inch wheels (the 2WD gets 18-inch alloys), a 12-speaker premium Infinity sound system, vented as well as massaging seats up front, in addition to the standard vented rear seats. 

Safety and driver assistance are also well covered, with the 03 equipped with a Level 2 ADAS suite that includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and traffic jam assist, as well as the more standard-fare autonomous emergency braking and blind spot monitoring. 

There’s even a meaner looking Black Phantom Edition with some exclusive cosmetics and accessories for an extra RM20k which, among other additions, adds an exclusive exterior bodykit, matte-black finish, roof rack platform, and side-ladder. 

The iCaur 03 is just the beginning of the brand’s product rollout in Malaysia. Later this year, the company also plans to introduce the iCaur 03T, a sportier and more rugged take on the 03, as well as the iCaur V23, which is expected to be priced in a similar, but slightly lower range. Together, these launches signal iCaur’s serious intentions for the local EV market. 

Earlier than expected and roughly 6 months after first breaking ground, Proton has opened the doors and turned on the lights in their new EV assembly plant in Tanjung Malim, which has been officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

At a cost of some 82 million Ringgit, the new assembly plant, or factory if you prefer, seems to be well ahead of schedule to facilitate the local production of the eMAS 5, which is set to launch toward the tail end of 2025 with a price point under RM100,000.

However, ahead of that, the Tanjung Malim plant will be responsible for local assembly of the eMAS 7, Proton’s first EV model filling the larger role as a C-segment SUV, which had only been sold here as fully imported units since its 2024 launch.

That said, due to heavy localisation that’s already underway, it’s unclear, perhaps unlikely, that the eMAS 7’s price will see any significant reduction as a result of its new CKD status. Specification changes are also unlikely to be on the cards.

According to Proton, the new plant will have an initial operational capacity of 20,000 units per year, but will be expandable to 45,000 units thanks to its highly modular design. EV models rolling off the lines here will not only be slated for sale in local showrooms, but will be due for export markets as well. It will also expand the employment opportunities of nearby residents with a projected 200 new jobs to be added to the economy.

Proton also took the opportunity to kick off the start of the MISI 5 tour, where the eMAS 5 will be embarking on a nationwide roadshow campaign in the lead up to its full debut. The car will be shown as well as driven in and around various locations throughout the country over the month of September and perhaps early October.

The Deputy Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) announced that its ministry is preparing to tighten control over the sale of subsidies RON95 petrol.

Dr Fuziah Salleh added the system is made to prevent any consequences of subsidies goods such as cooking oil, sugar, petrol when foreign nationals attempt to buy them, according to Harian Metro.

Moreover, KPDN has introduced the Cooking Oil Price Stabilization Scheme System (eCOSS). Under eCOSS, the entire supply chain is tracked, from wholesalers and retailers to end consumers and the same mechanism will soon be applied to the purchase of RON95 petrol.

As such, Malaysians will need to verify their MyKad at petrol stations before being allowed to buy subsidised fuel.

Fuziah said that the overall aim is to ensure subsidies are reserved for citizens and not diverted to foreigners.