All posts by Hanif Su'ib

Someone who loves driving manual cars but prefers riding an automatic scooter. Maybe it's an age thing.

2026 Cyclone RA600 officially launched in Malaysia – priced at RM25,888

Mforce Bike Holdings, the official distributor of Cyclone motorcycles has launched the latest cruiser model, the RA600.

Available in two colors, Prestige Black and Strong Grey, the RA600 is priced at RM25,888.

 

Specifications

The Cyclone RA600 is powered by a 550.4 cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine that generates 58 hp at 8,500 rpm and torque of 55 Nm at 6,500 rpm.

This power is transmitted to the rear wheel via a belt drive system.

The suspension consists of a telescopic front fork and a single shock absorber at the rear.

Additional features include:

  • 16-inch rims
  • Front and rear LED lighting system
  • Dual exhaust system
  • Digital LCD display panel
  • Two USB Type-A charging ports
  • 14.5-liter fuel tank
  • Seat height of 725 mm

2026 Brixton Storr 500 officially launched in Malaysia – priced at RM29,888

Mforce Bike Holdings, the official distributor of Brixton motorcycles has launched the latest adventure model, the 2026 Brixton Storr 500 for the local market.

Available in three color options (black, green, and yellow), the Storr 500 is priced at RM29,888.

 

Specifications

The Storr 500 is powered by a liquid-cooled 2-cylinder 486 cc engine paired with a 6-speed manual transmission.

It produces approximately 47.6 PS at 8,500 rpm and a torque of 43 Nm at 6,750 rpm.

The motorcycle is also equipped with adjustable KYB shock absorbers, offering a front wheel travel of 180 mm and a rear wheel travel of 175 mm.

The braking system features a single disc setup with a 4-piston caliper and a 320 mm rotor at the front, along with a single piston caliper and a 240 mm rotor at the rear.

As standard, the Brixton Storr 500 is equipped with features such as:

  • Front and rear LED lights
  • Fog lights
  • USB charging port
  • Bosch two-channel ABS
  • 7-inch display screen
  • Bluetooth support and mobile app
  • 16-liter fuel tank
  • Seat height of 839 mm

Isuzu D-Max is the second best-selling pickup in Malaysia for 2025

Isuzu Malaysia has announced a healthy sales achievement throughout 2025, despite the declining industry sentiment towards diesel vehicles.

During this period, a total of 6,880 units were successfully registered, capturing a market share of 56.1 percent. This marks a significant increase compared to the previous record high of 47.1 percent noted in 2023.

 

D-Max Retains Second Place

The Isuzu D-Max remains in its position as the second best-selling pickup truck, holding a market share of 15 percent.

Additionally, the Isuzu Elf light-duty truck continues to be the most popular truck in Malaysia for the 16th consecutive year. In the previous year, a total of 6,362 units were registered, contributing to 92.5 percent of all trucks sold.

Isuzu Forward repeated its success from 2023 by emerging as the best-selling medium-duty truck last year, with 494 units sold.

 

Isuzu’s Product Line Meets Customer Needs

Tomoyuki Yamaguchi, CEO of Isuzu Malaysia, stated that Isuzu’s commitment to understanding and fulfilling customer needs is fundamental to the brand’s growing popularity.

He added that the efficiency of the dealer network in adapting to market demands, along with a robust after-sales system has also contributed to Isuzu’s continued acceptance in Malaysia.

2026 CFMoto 250 Dual officially launched in Malaysia – priced at RM9,888

CFMoto Malaysia has officially launched the latest model, the 2026 CFMoto 250 Dual for the local market, coinciding with the opening of the Mforce Service Center in Segambut.

The motorcycle is available in three attractive color options: Tundra Grey, Polar White, and Lime Green.

 

Specifications

This machine is powered by a single-cylinder 249 cc engine that produces a maximum power of 24 hp at 8,000 rpm and torque of 22.5 Nm at 7,000 rpm.

Power is transmitted to the rear wheel through a chain drive system and a manual clutch.

The suspension consists of an inverted telescopic fork (with a wheel travel of 160 mm) at the front and a single shock absorber (with a wheel travel of 38 mm) at the rear.

Braking is provided by a single 265 mm disc at the front and a 220 mm disc at the rear, assisted by a two-channel ABS system.

Additional features include:

  • 21-inch front / 18-inch rear wheels
  • Seat height of 840 mm
  • 13-liter fuel tank
  • Digital LCD meter display
  • LED lights
  • USB Type-A charging port
  • Side stand safety switch

Price

The retail price starts at RM9,888 on the road, excluding insurance.

MForce unveils its largest service centre in Malaysia

Mforce Bike Holdings has officially opened its office and motorcycle service center in Malaysia, located in Segambut.

Spanning a total area of 77,000 square feet, this facility is the largest motorcycle service centre operated by Mforce in Malaysia.

It is situated at 46 & 48, Jalan Segambut Tengah, Taman Segambut, 51200 Kuala Lumpur.

Facilities

Based on a one-stop center concept, Mforce Kuala Lumpur offers a variety of comprehensive facilities, including:

  • Mforce Gallery showcasing up to 16 brands
  • Spacious customer waiting area
  • Exhibition and sales area for LS2 products and Mforce Oil
  • CR Café
  • Restaurant
  • Surau (prayer room)
  • Spare parts center
  • Spare parts storage warehouse

 

This new branch also features a Motorcycle Inspection Test Bench worth RM1.5 million, allowing for thorough checks on motorcycle safety aspects.

The total construction cost of the Mforce Kuala Lumpur facility reached RM40 million and is expected to be fully operational in the near future.

2026 Yamaha Tracer 9 GT now in Malaysia – priced from RM71,888

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor today launched the new 2026 Yamaha Tracer 9 GT for the Malaysian market.

Unlike its predecessor, the Tracer 9 GT features a more aggressive design and modern technology.

 

Engine

The Tracer 9 GT is powered by a 890 cc inline three-cylinder DOHC engine that delivers 119 PS at 10,000 rpm and 93 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm.

The engine is paired with a six-speed transmission and offers fuel consumption of 5.0L/100 km.

 

Suspension & Brakes

The suspension setup consists of an inverted telescopic fork (USD) at the front and a swingarm with a single shock absorber at the rear.

The Yamaha Ride Control (YRC) feature, developed by KYB, automatically adjusts damping settings based on riding mode and road conditions.

The braking system utilizes a dual 298 mm rotor at the front and a single 267 mm rotor at the rear.

 

Available Features

The all-new Tracer 9 GT comes equipped with modern features such as adaptive Matrix LED headlights, a third-generation quick shifter, a smart key system, and an electronically adjustable windscreen.

All information can be accessed via a seven-inch TFT display, complete with Garmin navigation support and Y-Connect app.

The motorcycle offers three riding modes: Sport, Street, and Rain, along with two customizable modes.

The fuel tank capacity is 19 liters, while the seat height is 845 mm.

 

Color Options & Pricing

There are two color options available: Ceramic Ice and Tech Black, with a selling price starting at RM71,888, excluding insurance and registration.

Proton offers incentives up to RM4,000 for scrapping old cars

Proton has announced an incentive offer of up to RM4,000 for all its current models, in line with the Malaysian Government’s implementation of the Vehicle Replacement Grant Matching Program.

This program aims to reduce the number of old vehicles on the road and encourage the use of safer, more energy-efficient cars.

Through this initiative, customers who trade in their old cars will be eligible to receive incentives from PROTON, which will be matched by the Ministry of Transport for up to RM2,000.

For the Proton Saga and Proton e.MAS 5 models, PROTON offers incentives of up to RM1,000, and up to RM2,000 for the X50, X70, and e.MAS 7 models.

According to Dr. Li Chunrong, the Chief Executive Officer of Proton, “The incentives offered by Proton are a continuation of the Proton Xchange Program introduced in May 2025.”

He further stated that by the end of 2025, a total of 4,344 transactions had been recorded, involving the disbursement of approximately RM6.68 million to assist in the purchase of new vehicles.

Alfa Romeo Malaysia announces official pricing for Giulia Veloce and Stelvio Veloce, from RM439k

Alfa Romeo Malaysia has announced the official sales prices for its inaugural models, the Giulia Veloce and Stelvio Veloce.

The official sales prices (excluding insurance and registration) are as follows:

  • Alfa Romeo Giulia Veloce: RM438,800
  • Alfa Romeo Stelvio Veloce: RM478,800

The launch of these official prices was accompanied by the opening of ‘Casa Alfa Romeo,’ the brand’s flagship showroom located at Rhapsody Square, TREC Kuala Lumpur.

The facility will serve as a community hub for Alfisti, and will also offer sales, services, and spare parts all under one roof.

Below are brief specifications for both models:

Alfa Romeo Giulia Veloce

 

  • 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine
  • 280 hp and 400 Nm of torque
  • 8-speed automatic transmission
  • Rear-wheel drive system
  • Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds
  • Top speed of 240 km/h
  • Alfa™ Link suspension system
  • Nearly 50:50 weight distribution
  • Carbon fiber drive shaft
  • Q2 limited-slip differential
  • 12.3-inch TFT display screen
  • Sport seats
  • Three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel
  • Aluminum trim

 

Alfa Romeo Stelvio Veloce

  • 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine
  • 280 hp and 400 Nm of torque
  • 8-speed automatic transmission
  • Q4 all-wheel drive system
  • 50:50 weight distribution
  • Alfa™ Link suspension system
  • Leather-wrapped sport seats
  • Aluminum trim
  • Flexible cargo space

Honda Malaysia leads non-national passenger car segment for 12 consecutive years

Honda Malaysia continues to lead the passenger car segment in Malaysia for 12 consecutive years.

Throughout 2025, Honda successfully sold 72,301 vehicles, capturing a market share of 8.8 percent.

 

Honda HR-V is the Best-Selling Model

Among the total sales, the Honda HR-V emerged as the best-selling model, accounting for 25 percent of total sales, followed closely by the City (24 percent) and the CR-V (15 percent).

Honda Malaysia also made significant contributions from e:HEV variants, with the HR-V and CR-V together representing over 30 percent of total hybrid vehicle sales.

Narushi Yazaki, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Honda Malaysia, stated, “I would like to express my appreciation to our customers for their continued confidence and unwavering trust in the Honda brand.

The sales performance in 2025 further reinforces our confidence in Honda’s product direction and our commitment to providing practical electrification solutions.”

First Hybrid Model Launched 21 Years Ago

He added, “As we celebrate 21 years (2004–2025) since the introduction of our hybrid technology, strengthening the presence of hybrid models in key segments remains a priority.

By integrating advanced hybrid technology, we aim to offer a more exhilarating and satisfying driving experience for our customers. We are committed to driving long-term growth and supporting a more sustainable future for the Honda brand.”

The first hybrid model introduced by Honda in the Malaysian market was the Honda Civic Hybrid in 2004.

Final Winners Announced for the Because of You Campaign

The Because of You campaign launched in October 2025 to commemorate the 25th anniversary, has reached its conclusion.

Four lucky winners were announced last year, and today Honda revealed the final two winners for December 2025.

Cheah Wei Kong from Selangor won a City 1.5L RS after purchasing a Honda e:N1. Meanwhile, Muhammad Syabil bin Muzafar from Perak won an HR-V 1.5L Turbo V after buying a Civic 1.5L Turbo V.

2026 GWM Wey G9 officially launched in Malaysia – priced from RM269,800

GWM Malaysia has officially launched the latest plug-in hybrid MPV model, the GWM Wey G9 Hi4 PHEV for the Malaysian market.

This locally assembled unit is priced starting from RM269,800.

Here are some key facts you should know:

 

Dimensions

The Wey G9 measures 5,050 mm in length, 1,985 mm in width, and 1,900 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,085 mm.

The ground clearance is 155 mm.

The cargo capacity is 233 liters, expandable to a maximum of 1,725 liters.

 

Hi-4 Hybrid System

This plug-in hybrid MPV features the Hi4 hybrid system, which includes:

  • 1.5-liter turbo GDI engine with 150 PS @ 5,500 rpm and 240 Nm @ 1,800-2,400 rpm
  • Front electric motor with 108 PS and 170 Nm
  • Rear electric motor with 184 PS and 232 Nm
  • Total power output of 442 PS and 642 Nm
  • 4-speed DHT transmission
  • 44.2 kWh battery pack

Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in just 5.7 seconds, with a top speed of 190 km/h.

The Hi4 system allows the Wey G9 to operate in zero-emission mode for up to 170 km, with a total range reaching up to 1,000 km (NEDC data).

Fuel consumption is as low as 1.2 liters per 100 km.

There are five driving modes: Normal, Eco, Sport, AWD, and Snow.

 

Chassis & Exterior Features

As standard, the Wey G9 comes equipped with FRD (Frequency Response Damper), disc brake system, 18-inch wheels, and Michelin e-Primacy tires (size 245/50 R18).

Other features include an all-LED lighting system with automatic headlights and automatic high beam (AHB) function, a front and rear panoramic glass roof, and an electronic tailgate.

 

Interior

The interior of the Wey G9 offers a three-row seating configuration, finished with Premium Nappa leather and leatherette for the third row.

The driver’s seat features eight-level adjustments, memory function, lumbar support, a 10-point massage feature, and ventilation, while the front passenger seat includes six-level electric adjustments, a Bosch switch, memory function, and ventilation.

Second-row passengers can enjoy Zero Gravity seating, complete with ventilation, massage, six-level adjustments, and a small control panel.

Other incorporated features include a 64-color ambient lighting system, a 12.3-inch digital display, a 14.6-inch central screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, a 21-speaker audio system, HALOSonic active noise cancellation, a 12.5-liter refrigerator, and USB charging ports.

 

Safety Features

The Wey G9 is equipped with safety features such as six airbags, ABS, EBD, Traction Control (TCS), ISOFIX anchors, and a 360-degree camera system with Transparent Chassis functionality.

Active safety features include:

  • Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
  • Front Collision Warning (FCW)
  • Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
  • Lane Keeping Assistance (LKA)
  • Lane Change Assistance (LCA)
  • Rear Collision Warning (RCW)
  • Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
  • Secondary Collision Mitigation (SCM)
  • Blind Spot Monitoring (BSD)
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
  • Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR)
  • Traffic Jam Assistance (TJA)
  • Smart Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

2026 Toyota Vios HEV officially launched in Malaysia – 2 variants, from RM103,900

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) today officially launched the 2026 Toyota Vios HEV, a hybrid sedan in the B-segment.

This locally assembled unit (CKD) is available in two variants: the Vios 1.5 HEV and the Vios 1.5 HEV GR Sport.

Here are some key facts you need to know:

 

Chassis

Due to the addition of a hybrid battery, the Vios HEV is essentially heavier than the standard Vios.

Therefore, Toyota has taken steps to reduce weight in certain areas, such as the bonnet, fenders, door panels, and boot lid.

 

Hybrid Engine

The Vios HEV is powered by Toyota’s fourth-generation electric hybrid system, which includes:

  • A 1,496 cc engine (code 2NR-VEX) producing 91 PS/121 Nm
  • An electric motor with 80 PS/141 Nm
  • A lithium-ion battery pack rated at 4.3 Ahr

Total power reaches 111 PS, directed to the front wheels via an E-CVT transmission.

Fuel consumption is approximately 3.6 liters per 100 km (NEDC data).

 

Exterior

There are not many changes to the exterior, apart from the addition of the HEV logo and dark chrome accents on the front grille.

Notably, there is a sound alert system to inform pedestrians and cyclists of the approaching sedan.

 

Interior

The 2026 Vios HEV comes with new features such as upgraded cabin lighting, a larger 10.1-inch Digital Audio display screen, and the inclusion of an EV Mode button.

Additionally, the cabin of the Vios HEV is quieter thanks to the use of acoustic windscreen glass.

 

Vios HEV GR Sport

The GR Sport variant is making a return to the Vios lineup.

Unlike the standard variant, the Vios HEV GR Sport features:

  • GR Sport aerodynamic body kit
  • 17-inch GR Sport alloy wheels
  • Continental PremiumContact 6 tires
  • Combination leather and suede seats

The Vios HEV GR Sport also benefits from chassis tuning that enhances its driving dynamics.

Furthermore, this hybrid sedan is equipped with re-tuned springs and shock absorbers for a sportier experience, along with a more responsive electric power steering (EPS) system.

 

Safety

As standard, the Toyota Vios HEV and Vios HEV GR Sport are equipped with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), which includes the following functions:

  • Pre-Collision System (PCS)
  • Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
  • Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
  • Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
  • Forward Movement Alert (FMA)
  • High Beam Assist
  • Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)


Colour Options

The Toyota Vios HEV is available in a new exclusive colour, Celestite Grey Metallic, along with four existing colors: Platinum White Pearl, Scarlet SE, Attitude Black, and Silver Metallic.

Meanwhile, the Vios HEV GR Sport is offered in two two-tone colour options: Platinum White Pearl/Black and Scarlet SE/Black.

 

Price

The Vios HEV hybrid sedan is priced starting from RM103,900, while the HEV GR Sport version is priced at RM109,900.

 

2026 Toyota Vios HEV

2026 Toyota Vios HEV GR Sport

100 Petron service stations will be equipped with solar panels

Petron Malaysia is progressing its path towards a low-carbon future through a strategic partnership with Progressture Renewables Sdn Bhd (Progressture Solar).

Under this long-term partnership, 100 Petron service stations nationwide will be equipped with solar panels photovoltaic (PV) systems, reinforcing Petron’s commitment to Malaysia’s net-zero 2050 ambitions.

As part of the agreement, Progressture Solar will own, manage, and maintain the operation of the solar assets during the contract period.

Once completed, the solar systems are projected to:

  • Generate up to 3,321 MWh of renewable energy annually, enough to power approximately 953 Malaysian households every year.
  • Cut up to 2,517 tonnes of carbon emissions annually, equivalent to removing 587 cars from the road or planting 62,933 trees annually.
  • Deliver cumulative emissions reductions of more than 62,925 tonnes over the project’s full lifecycle.

Mohd Nizam Mansor, General Manager of Petron Malaysia said, “This partnership reflects our commitment to integrating sustainability into every facet of our operations.

“This is part of Petron’s journey in reducing carbon emission and supporting Malaysia’s Net-Zero 2050 goal, in supplementing power to our operations in a cleaner and more resilient way.

Ng Yew Weng, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Progressture Solar, said “As a leading clean energy partner, we believe this collaboration represents an important step forward for the retail fuel industry.

“It demonstrates how renewable energy can deliver real operational impact while supporting Petron’s decarbonisation efforts and Malaysia’s journey towards Net Zero.”

GWM Malaysia begins exporting CKD Wey G9 to Thailand

GWM Malaysia has achieved another significant milestone today with the delivery of the first Completely Knocked Down (CKD) model of the GWM WEY G9 to Thailand.

This initiative demonstrates GWM’s commitment to closer collaboration at the regional level, strengthening the capabilities of New Energy Vehicles (NEV), and developing a cross-border industry.

The delivery follows the successful local production of the WEY G9 in Malaysia and marks the next phase in GWM’s plan to establish a robust supply chain and manufacturing ecosystem in ASEAN.

The CKD export to Thailand also underscores GWM’s confidence in Malaysia’s ability to undertake high-value automotive assembly, technology transfer, and its future export potential.

This effort is expected to enhance the competitiveness of the local industry, develop vendors, and strengthen Malaysia’s position in GWM’s regional strategy.

According to Mr. Roslan Abdullah, Chief Operating Officer of GWM Malaysia, this CKD delivery reflects the solid foundation GWM is building in ASEAN.

“Malaysia is now playing a role as a strategic assembly hub supporting neighboring markets with more advanced new energy products while strengthening regional supply chain integration.”

Mr. Cui Anqi, Managing Director of GWM Malaysia, added, “The WEY G9 combines world-class engineering with local craftsmanship. The delivery to Thailand showcases Malaysia’s capacity to support GWM’s expansion in the region and marks the beginning of GWM’s long-term plan in new energy technology.”

The GWM Wey G9 is set to be officially launched in Malaysia this month.

Key Specifications:

  • 1.5-liter turbo engine, 150 PS/240 Nm
  • Two electric motors
  • Total power: 442 PS/642 Nm
  • DHT 4-speed transmission
  • Acceleration: 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds
  • Battery: 44.2 kWh
  • EV range: 145 km (WLTP data)
  • Total range: 850 km

AFAZ confirms local-made supermoped featuring GSX-R150 engine

This is an exciting development from Malaysia’s second national motorcycle brand, AFAZ.

Last weekend, AFAZ revealed some information about the latest development of another model that will be launched this year—a 150 cc supermoped.

Yes, it seems that the Modenas Z15GT will soon have a real competitor!

Here are some key facts you should know:

1. The AFAZ supermoped will utilize a 147 cc engine from the GSX-R150.

It is reported that this engine, capable of producing 19 hp at 10,500 rpm and 14 Nm of torque at 9,000 rpm, will be retuned by AFAZ.

2. During the event, we were not allowed to take any photos of the actual appearance of the supermoped.

The prototype unit displayed afterward was found to use components from the Raider 150.

However, there is no need to worry, as AFAZ stated that the chassis of this supermoped will be completely newly developed, and all other components will also be made in-house.

3. The AFAZ supermoped is categorized as a premium model, on par with the Yamaha Y16ZR.

Features we can expect include a TFT display with voice command support, dual-channel ABS, LED lights, and other elements tailored for a high-performance motorcycle.

4. Another interesting point shared is that this supermoped will feature an auto clutch system developed by Amitech, a subsidiary under AFY Mobilities.

This auto clutch system will debut on the Raider model in the Vietnamese market before being offered on this AFAZ supermoped.

5. Looking for a supermoped alternative to Yamaha, Honda, and Modenas?

You can look forward to the arrival of this model soon, with a possible launch in the second half of this year (H2 2026).

HLYM announces two new colours for 2026 Yamaha NMAX ABS, priced at RM11,499

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor has announced two new colour options available for the Yamaha NMAX ABS 2026 scooter.

The new colours are Icon Blue and Crystal Graphite.

The retail price of the Yamaha NMAX ABS 2026 starts at RM11,498 (excluding registration fees and insurance).

The basic specifications of the NMAX remain unchanged, powered by a single-cylinder SOHC 155 cc engine that produces 15.2 hp at 8,000 rpm and 14.2 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm.

This scooter features a telescopic fork suspension at the front and dual shock absorbers at the rear, while the braking system includes a single 230 mm disc at both the front and rear.

The overall weight of the scooter is just 131 kg, with a seat height of 775 mm and a fuel tank capacity of 7.1 liters.

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R SE and ZX-4RR officially launched in Malaysia, prices starting from RM40,999

Edaran Modenas Sdn Bhd (EMOS) has recently launched the latest models of the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R SE and ZX-4RR for the Malaysian market.

Both models are powered by a 399 cc inline four-cylinder DOHC engine, producing 76 hp at 14,500 rpm and 39 Nm of torque at 13,000 rpm.

With the help of Ram Air technology, the power output increases to 79 hp.

The suspension setup features an inverted telescopic front fork, while the rear is equipped with a single shock absorber that includes preload adjustment.

The ZX-4RR model, in addition, comes with a Showa BFRC-lite (Balance Free Rear Cushion) rear shock absorber and adjustable front suspension.

Other features include the two-way Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS), Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC), ABS, Power Modes, LED lighting, and a TFT display screen.

The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R SE is available in two color options: Metallic Moondusty Gray/Metallic Spark Black and Blizzard White/Spark Black, while the ZX-4RR offers an exclusive Lime Green/Ebony color scheme.

The starting price for the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R SE is RM40,999, while the Ninja ZX-4RR is priced at RM42,999.

Zeekr 009 Ultra Luxury wins 2025 Malaysia Car of the Year award

The overall 2025 Malaysia Car of the Year award has been presented to the luxurious MPV model, Zeekr 009 Ultra Luxury.

This marks the second consecutive year that electric vehicles have received the highest recognition, reflecting the ongoing development of EVs in the Malaysian automotive market.

The Zeekr 009 Ultra Luxury was chosen for setting a new benchmark in terms of advanced electric powertrain technology, high refinement levels, comprehensive safety features, and modern luxury amenities that come as standard.

The Proton X50 1.5TD Flagship was awarded the “People’s Choice Award” for 2025, reflecting consumer sentiment regarding technology, energy efficiency, safety, and value.

Meanwhile, the “Automotive Person of the Year (APOY)” award was given to Dato’ Seri Zainal Abidin Ahmad, President and CEO of Perodua.

Under his leadership, Perodua has consistently recorded strong sales performance, significantly contributing to Malaysia’s Total Industry Volume (TIV).

He has also supported broader industry development through vendor development, workforce skill enhancement, and alignment with national automotive policies and sustainability, thereby reinforcing Perodua’s role as a pillar of Malaysia’s automotive sector.

Notably, the MCOTY 2025 awards saw a substantial number of recipients consisting of electrified vehicles, particularly fully electric models.

At the same time, this outcome reflects how hybrid powertrains and modern turbocharged internal combustion engines have become the new norm among high-performance vehicles.

“The Malaysia Car of the Year award reflects the extent of progress in our automotive industry, not only in scale but also in innovation and sustainability.

“The significant presence of electric vehicles among the main award winners demonstrates Malaysia’s readiness to embrace cleaner and smarter mobility solutions,” said Deputy Prime Minister YAB Dato’ Sri Haji Fadillah Haji Yusof.

He explained that this aligns with national and regional aspirations, as the government’s ongoing focus on energy transition opens opportunities for industry players to invest in green technology, strengthen local capabilities, and develop future mobility solutions.

The winners of 2025 MCOTY were selected through a transparent and comprehensive judging process, conducted by a panel of automotive journalists and experienced industry professionals.

Vehicles were assessed based on eight key criteria: Design, Safety, Ergonomics, Value, Practicality, Performance, Energy Efficiency, and Warranty. This comprehensive evaluation framework ensures that awards are granted to vehicles that are genuinely relevant in the real world and offer balanced excellence.

Denza D9 prices remain unchanged as it celebrates its first anniversary

Denza Malaysia has announced that the selling price of the luxury electric MPV, the Denza D9, will remain unchanged at RM259,000 for the FWD variant and RM309,000 for the AWD variant.

These prices are valid only for the 2025 model year.

Since its launch in February 2025, over 1,200 units of the Denza D9 have been sold, making it the number one luxury MPV in Malaysia.

In conjunction with its first anniversary, Denza Malaysia continues to offer rewards worth up to RM15,000, including:

  • A complimentary 22 kW wall charger
  • A free 6-year or 120,000 km service package
  • A 6-year vehicle warranty

Denza customers will also have the opportunity to enjoy an exclusive lifestyle experience that includes invitations to the Denza Golf Cup, premium culinary experiences, and special travel privileges that will be introduced gradually.

According to Eagle Zhao, Managing Director of Denza Malaysia, “As Malaysia moves into the next phase of electric vehicle adoption, we want to ensure that our customers feel confident and valued throughout their ownership experience.

“The first year has laid the foundation for trust, and the years to come will focus on delivering a more meaningful experience that reflects Denza’s premium lifestyle,” he stated.

 

Lepas brand to debut in 1H 2026, targets 30 sales and service centers by year-end

Another new automotive brand, Lepas, is set to debut in the Malaysian market in the first half of this year.

In conjunction with the launch, Lepas Malaysia has also announced its strategy to open 20 sales and service centers in key states across Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia.

Lepas is aiming to have up to 30 sales centers operational by the end of 2026.

This premium brand will feature a lineup of SUV models (L4, L6, and L8) developed on the Chery Group’s global new energy vehicle (NEV) platform.

This platform is designed to support various vehicle sizes and configurations, including internal combustion engines, hybrids, and fully electric powertrains.

Lepas also plans to establish a Lifestyle Experience Center in the Klang Valley, allowing customers to experience the elegant mobility concept based on three main pillars:

  • Leopard Aesthetics as the design DNA
  • Exquisite Space as the product strength
  • Elegant Driving as the driving experience.

According to Men Lin Bo, Executive Vice President of Chery Corporate Malaysia, “Lepas is designed for a confident, creative, and always-connected generation. It is for individuals seeking a balance between career, family, and interests, and who desire a vehicle that reflects their lifestyle and personal aesthetics.”

The Lepas brand was officially established in 2025 and is currently building its presence in the European, Middle Eastern, African, and Southeast Asian markets.

2026 Aveta Nova 250 now available in Titan Red & Nordic Blue, priced from RM14,388

Aveta Motor Malaysia has announced two new colours for the Aveta Nova 250 scooter: Titan Red and Nordic Blue.

The Titan Red variant will be offered at a base price starting from RM14,388, excluding road tax and insurance.

Meanwhile, the Nordic Blue colour has been introduced as a Limited Edition, with production limited to just 688 units.

Each Limited Edition unit is priced at RM14,888 and comes with a unique serial number, sporty aluminum handlebars, and a special Aveta logo sticker.

The Aveta Nova 250 is powered by a liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine with a displacement of 244.3 cc, producing 25.5 hp at 8,250 rpm and a torque of 23 Nm at 6,500 rpm, paired with a CVT transmission.

This scooter is equipped with telescopic forks at the front, complemented by two gas shock absorbers at the rear.

The braking system features a four-piston caliper at the front and a two-piston caliper at the rear, assisted by a dual-channel ABS system and traction control (TCS).