UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has announced the return of the Toyota Dream Car Art Contest (DCAC) for its 19th edition.
This contest will take place in Malaysia from October 1, 2025, to February 8, 2026, under the theme “Your Dream Car.” It is open to participants in three age categories:
Group 1: Ages 7 and below
Group 2: Ages 8-11
Group 3: Ages 12-15
Five main winners will be selected based on age category, and from these, nine winners (three from each category) will be chosen to represent Malaysia on the global stage in Japan. The list of national winners will be announced in April 2026.
For this year’s contest, participants are encouraged to submit hand-drawn and digital artworks, regardless of materials, media, and techniques used, in either A3 paper format or digital formats such as JPG or PNG.
Since its inception in 2004, the Toyota Dream Car Art Contest has provided a platform for nearly 9.4 million children worldwide to share their ideas and imagination, which may help shape the vehicles of the future.
In previous editions, the contest garnered a remarkable 665,326 entries from 90 countries, showcasing its global reach and ability to inspire creative thinking across borders.
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) has announced an update to the Yamaha Y15ZR model with three new colour options.
The new colours are Blue Spark, Aqua Violet, and Mecha Green.
The Yamaha Y15ZR in these new colors has been available at all authorized Yamaha dealers nationwide since November 6, with a selling price starting at RM8,998, excluding registration and insurance.
The basic specifications of the Yamaha Y15ZR remain unchanged, featuring a single-cylinder 150 cc liquid-cooled SOHC engine that produces 15.2 hp at 8,500 rpm and torque of 13.8 Nm at 7,000 rpm.
The suspension consists of telescopic forks at the front, followed by a swingarm at the rear, while the braking system uses a single rotor setup for both wheels.
The Y15ZR offers a fuel tank capacity of 4.2 liters and a seat height of 780 mm.
Royal Enfield Malaysia has announced the arrival of the affordable roadster model, the Hunter 350, which has been updated for the Malaysian market.
It is powered by an air/oil-cooled single-cylinder engine, delivering 20.2 hp at 6,100 rpm and a torque of 27 Nm at 4,000 rpm.
The power is transferred to the rear wheel through a five-speed transmission, assisted by an Assist & Slipper clutch.
The twin downtube spine frame is complemented by a 41 mm telescopic front fork suspension, along with twin shock absorbers that offer six levels of preload adjustment.
The braking system consists of a dual-piston caliper and a 300 mm rotor at the front, followed by a single-piston caliper and a 270 mm rotor at the rear. A dual-channel ABS system is also provided.
The Hunter 350 features modern elements such as LED lighting units, a digital-analog meter display complete with Tripper Pod navigation assistance, and a USB Type-C charging port.
The fuel tank capacity is 13 liters, while the seat height is 790 mm.
For the Malaysian market, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is priced from RM21,900 for the Rio White and Dapper Grey color variants, and from RM22,500 for the Tokyo Black, London Red, and Rebel Blue colors.
Shell Malaysia today launched the brand new cross-border Shell Recharge App, replacing the existing Park Easy app.
The Shell Recharge App can be downloaded for free from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
The new app offers several features designed to enhance the electric vehicle (EV) charging experience, including:
Quick Payments – link your debit or credit card for fast payment
Reserve & Recharge – book a charging slot before arriving at the station
Cross-Border Roaming – use the same app for cross-border charging between Malaysia and Singapore
Live Charging Updates – track your charging status in real-time
Find a Charger Easily – locate nearby charging stations
This launch emphasizes Shell’s commitment to expanding the Shell Recharge charging network throughout the country.
So far, Shell has high-performance charging facilities along the North-South Expressway, an East Coast-West Coast charging network, and high-altitude charging hubs located in Genting Highlands.
In conjunction with the launch of the new app, Shell is offering a limited-time promotion.
On November 11, 2025, all users of the Shell Recharge App will be able to enjoy a special rate of RM1.11/kWh when charging at Shell Recharge HPCs across Malaysia, subject to terms and conditions.
Sejamas World Sdn Bhd, a Bumiputera-owned automotive solutions provider, has announced the launch of Madani Batteries—a maintenance-free car battery brand designed for the local market.
Officially launched by YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, during the Mega Carnival 3 in Damansara, Madani Batteries aim to provide reliability, affordability, and accessibility to all Malaysian drivers, particularly within the B40 and M40 communities.
This premium-grade battery is priced starting at RM130 (including installation, diagnostics, and calibration), which is 50 percent lower than the usual market price.
Each Madani Battery also comes with a one-year warranty or a coverage of 20,000 kilometers for private vehicles, and they are now available nationwide through an expanding network of Sejamas service branches and authorized distributors.
Commenting on the launch, Alfred Kenneth Jingulam Jr., spokesperson for Sejamas World, stated, “Our mission with Madani Batteries is to ensure high-quality automotive batteries are available and affordable for every Malaysian driver.
“Private transportation is critical to the Malaysian people—there are over 38.7 million vehicles on our roads. As the overall cost of living rises, we are pleased to offer a product that helps alleviate this burden in a meaningful way.
“This is a socially-driven innovation—not just a commercial product but a national movement to empower Malaysians through practical and affordable automotive solutions.”
Proton has officially announced that bookings for the new Saga sedan model are now open.
The 2026 Proton Saga will be available in three variants: Standard, Executive, and Premium, with estimated selling prices ranging from RM40,000 to RM50,000.
Proton is also offering exclusive rewards for customers who make reservations before the official launch.
The first 20,000 buyers who place their reservations from November 10, 2025, until the official launch date and complete their registration by December 31, 2025, will be eligible for the following offers:
Free Service Package for 1 Year or up to 20,000 km (whichever comes first)
New Touch ‘n Go Saga Limited Edition Card
Details about the 2026 Proton Saga can be found through the following link:
Toyota Motor Asia (TMA) has officially unveiled the 9th generation of the Toyota Hilux pickup truck, which will be available starting in 2026.
Here are some key facts you should know:
Powertrain Options
The new Hilux continues with a 2.8-liter turbo diesel engine (code 1GD-FTV) that can be paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission (204 PS/420 Nm) or a 6-speed automatic transmission (204 PS/500 Nm).
Toyota is also offering an electric version of the Hilux (Travo-e in the Thailand market), powered by two electric motors with a total output of 196 PS.
With a 59.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, the Hilux Travo-e has a range of 315 km (NEDC data).
Aligned with a multi-pathway approach, Toyota will develop a hydrogen fuel cell model (FCEV) to be introduced in Europe and Oceania starting in 2028.
Chassis
This new generation Hilux retains the IMV (Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle) platform but has been enhanced with various modern technologies.
These enhancements include a mechanical upgrade called Dynamic Cloud, which encompasses:
Additional connection points on the body frame for a sturdier and more stable structure
Suspension tuning for smoother handling
Hydraulic engine mounts to reduce vibration impacts
A larger steering shaft for more responsive control
Exterior Design
The 2026 Hilux features visual changes such as:
A Cyber Sumo front face with thinner headlight units
The addition of side steps on the truck bed
Neater rear lights
Newly designed 18-inch alloy wheels
Cabin Space
The layout of the new Hilux cabin showcases a theme of Robust Simplicity with the following features:
A 12.3-inch digital cluster screen
A 12.3-inch central screen
Climate control buttons with a digital display
Land Cruiser-style steering wheel and gear knob
More ergonomic seat design
Additionally, the new Hilux comes with an electric parking brake system with Auto Brake Hold functionality, as well as electronic power steering (EPS).
Safety Features
All variants of the Hilux sold in the Thai market come equipped with standard safety features such as rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, rear cross-traffic alert (RCTA), and a blind spot monitoring system (BSM).
Furthermore, the Toyota Safety Sense 3 (TSS) package now includes improved pre-collision and lane-keeping assist functions, along with a panoramic view monitoring system (PVM) and Multi-Terrain Monitor (MTM).
ASEAN NCAP has announced that the MG MGS5 EV SUV has received a five-star rating in its new vehicle assessment tests.
Based on the evaluation, the MGS5 EV achieved an impressive overall score of 92.39 points across the following four categories:
Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) – 37.90/40.00
Child Occupant Protection (COP) – 16.99/20.00
Safety Assistance (SA) – 20.00/20.00
Motorcycle Safety (MS) – 17.50/20.00
The MGS5 EV is a segment C electric crossover with five seats that offers a range of safety features including seven airbags, ABS, seatbelt reminders, and a rear passenger detector.
Advanced safety features available include Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) for City, Inter-Urban, Pedestrian & Motorcycle scenarios, Blind Spot Detection (BSD), High Beam Assistance (AHB), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), and Lane Keeping Assistance (LKA).
Malaysians can purchase the MGS5 EV starting at a price of RM107,900 for the Com variant, RM117,900 for the Com Long Range variant, and RM127,900 for the Lux Long Range variant.
Jetour Malaysia has announced the opening of bookings for the rugged premium SUV model, Jetour T2, with an estimated price of RM178,888.
With the recent debut of the right-hand drive (RHD) version, Malaysia is among the first markets in the world to welcome this model.
For your information, the Jetour T2 RHD version was showcased during the Shanghai Auto Show in April.
Here are some brief facts about the Jetour T2, set to launch in the first quarter of 2026 (Q1 2026):
Engine
The Jetour T2 is powered by a 2.0L turbocharged petrol engine with an output of 245 PS and a torque of 375 Nm.
The engine is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and features an adaptive smart driving mode, X-Intelligent, which adjusts to the road surface and conditions.
Dimensions
The Jetour T2 is a mid-sized SUV with dimensions of 4,785 mm in length, 2,006 mm in width, 1,880 mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2,800 mm.
Features
The Jetour T2 comes equipped with LED lighting units featuring a backlit Jetour logo, roof rails, and an external storage box on the rear cargo door.
Inside the cabin, it features a 10.25-inch instrument cluster screen, a 15.6-inch infotainment screen, support for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Sony audio system with 12 speakers.
Safety
Jetour Malaysia has confirmed that the T2 SUV will be equipped with six airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), a 360-degree surround-view camera, and Level 2 ADAS driver assistance systems.
Malaysians interested in the Jetour T2 can place their bookings at all authorized Jetour dealers with a booking fee of RM1,000.
Toyota’s multi-pathway approach, which has been in place for several years, goes beyond achieving carbon neutrality through modern technologies such as hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCEV), hybrids (HEV), plug-in hybrids (PHEV), and battery electric vehicles (BEV).
It also includes more sustainable solutions that can be adapted to local contexts, such as the use of biofuels and compressed natural gas (CNG).
By offering low-emission and zero-emission mobility solutions that are more accessible, Toyota can meet the needs of various user segments in Asia.
At the same time, it can provide lasting value benefits to individuals and society.
The three new principles being implemented by Toyota under this Multi-Pathway Approach are Best in Town, Customer Comes First, and Start by Doing.
Best in Town
This philosophy emphasizes delivering the best products and services that meet the unique mobility needs of each Asian market.
One example provided is the global IMV platform, introduced in 2002, which aims to create a platform that can support various vehicles to cater to the mobility needs of developing markets.
Akio Toyoda stated, “We cannot satisfy customers by promoting the number of vehicles; what matters is being the best in the city.”
Customer Comes First
At the Japan Mobility Show 2025, Toyota introduced its brand lineup—Century, Lexus, Gazoo Racing, Toyota, and Daihatsu—each playing a unique role based on the principle of “Mobility for All.”
This aligns with Toyota’s theme “To You,” introduced this year, emphasizing that no one should be left behind.
Ultimately, the multi-pathway approach to achieving carbon neutrality offers a variety of sustainable solution options for users.
Start by Doing
To achieve its goals, action must be taken immediately.
For this purpose, Toyota has initiated several projects in collaboration with various partners, including the Commercial Japan Partnership Technologies Corporation (CJPT), which drives the logistics industry toward an era of efficiency and carbon reduction fueled by data.
Additionally, the Toyota Mobility Foundation’s (TMF) community projects aim to improve safety, reduce congestion, and enhance accessibility.
Toyota believes that mobility is not just a mode of transportation but rather a means to access opportunities, connections, and a better quality of life.
According to Masahiko Maeda, CEO of Toyota Motor Corporation’s Asia region, “At Toyota, we believe that achieving the Mobility for All and Carbon Neutrality goals requires more than just one solution for vehicles, energy, and data.”
“We believe the future of mobility is ours to create through collaboration, shared purpose, and collective action. As a result, we can build an ecosystem that brings smiles to people across the Asia region.”
GWM Malaysia has announced the availability of the Tank 500 Black Edition for the local market, with a selling price of RM336,800.
As its name suggests, the Tank 500 Black Edition features a glossy black finish on several parts, including the grille, Tank emblem, 20-inch rims, door handles, and spare tire housing.
The Tank 500 is also equipped with LED headlights that have a smoky effect.
The basic specifications of the Tank 500 remain unchanged, powered by a 2.0-liter hybrid engine producing a total power output of 346 PS and 648 Nm, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission.
In contrast to the Tank 500 Black Edition, the standard Tank 500 is priced at RM328,800.
Great Wall Motor Malaysia (GWM Malaysia) today announced the arrival of its more sporty electric vehicle (EV) model, the Ora Good Cat GT.
The starting price is RM119,800.
There are several differences between the Ora Good Cat GT and the Ultra variant that is also offered.
Here are some key details about the Ora Good Cat GT:
Dimensions
Compared to the Ora Good Cat Ultra, the Ora Good Cat GT features a length of 4,254 mm (+19 mm) and a width of 1,848 mm (+23 mm).
The height and wheelbase remain unchanged, with a ground clearance of 135 mm.
Performance
The Ora Good Cat GT is powered by an electric motor that generates 171 PS and 250 Nm of torque, providing an increase of 28 PS and 40 Nm over the Ultra variant.
However, the top speed is limited to 150 km/h.
The GT variant offers driving modes including Normal, Sport, ECO, ECO+, Auto, and Individual.
Like the Ultra variant, the Ora Good Cat GT is equipped with a 57.7 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack, allowing for a driving range of up to 460 km.
Standard features include AC charging at 6.6 kW (full charge in 9 hours) and DC fast charging at 60 kW, enabling a 30-80% charge in just 38 minutes.
The Ora Good Cat also supports a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function at 3.3 kW.
Exterior Features
The GT variant is distinguished from the Ultra by its sportier exterior appearance.
The GT variant includes features such as:
More aggressive front and rear bumpers
Yellow brake calipers
18-inch black alloy wheels with yellow trim
Power liftgate
Yellow accents on the bumpers
Yellow side mirror housings
Cabin Space
Both variants of the Ora Good Cat come with a two-tone interior, but the GT variant features a more striking combination of black and yellow.
Additionally, the GT includes exclusive features such as sporty front seats with ventilation and massage functions, as well as suede leather upholstery.
Other standard features include:
7-inch digital display
10.25-inch infotainment screen
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support
50W wireless device charger
Automatic climate control with a PM 2.5 filter
Six-speaker audio system
Panoramic glass roof
Safety Features
Standard safety features on both variants include:
Six airbags
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Traction Control System (TCS)
ISOFIX anchors
360-degree camera
Chassis leak camera function
Intelligent Parking Assistance System (IIP)
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Traffic Jam Assist (TJA)
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
Center Lane Keeping Assist (LCK)
Rear Collision Warning (RCW)
Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
Hill Start Assist (HSA)
Ora Good Cat Ultra variant
The Ora Good Cat Ultra variant is also officially available at a starting price of RM109,800, featuring the following specifications:
Single electric motor
143 PS power, 210 Nm of torque
Driving range of 480 km
Driving modes: Normal, Sport, ECO, ECO+, and Auto
18-inch alloy wheels
Interior finish options: Green/Grey, Brown/Rice, or Green/Rice (depending on exterior color)
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has announced the return of the VW Golf R-Line hatchback variant for the local market.
This unit, assembled locally at the Pekan plant in Pahang, is equipped with a 1.5-liter eTSI mild hybrid (MHEV) engine that delivers 150 PS and 250 Nm of torque.
The engine is paired with a seven-speed DSG transmission featuring shift-by-wire technology.
Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in just 8.6 seconds, with fuel consumption rated at approximately 5.2 liters per 100 km.
In terms of exterior features, the Golf R-Line sports a design that enhances its sporty image, including:
17-inch Coventry alloy wheels
R-Line front bumper and grille
R-Line rear bumper
R-Line side skirts
Inside the cabin, highlights include:
R-Line black headliner
Stainless steel pedals
R-Line sporty steering wheel with physical function buttons
Carbon Grey R-Line trim on the dashboard and door panels
R-Line fabric upholstery for the front seats
Artvelours trim on the rear seats
Additionally, the Golf R-Line comes with a 12.9-inch infotainment screen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a seven-speaker audio system, IDA voice assistance, paddle shifters, a three-zone automatic climate control system, and Type-C USB charging ports.
The IQ.Drive safety features include:
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Travel Assist
Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
Vehicle Exit Warning
Driver Attention Monitoring System
Park Distance Control, Emergency Assist, Side Assist, and Lane Assist
Currently, VPCM has not announced the official retail price for the Golf R-Line.
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has officially announced the availability of the locally assembled (CKD) hot hatch model, the Golf GTI in Malaysia.
The vehicle is powered by a 2.0-liter TSI turbo engine that delivers 265 PS (+20 PS) and 370 Nm of torque.
This power is transmitted to the front wheels via a seven-speed DSG transmission.
The exterior design of the Golf GTI features elements such as:
GTI front bumper
Honeycomb grille and front air intake trim
GTI rear bumper
Twin chrome exhaust tips on the left and right
GTI side skirts
18-inch Richmond alloy wheels
The cabin of the Golf GTI comes equipped with the following features:
GTI black headliner
Stainless steel pedals
Leather-wrapped GTI sports steering wheel with physical controls
Black Metal Chrome GTI accents on the dashboard and front door panels
Vienna leather-trimmed front seats
Additionally, it includes a 12.9-inch infotainment screen, support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 480-watt Harman Kardon audio system with nine speakers and a subwoofer, USB Type-C charging ports, and a head-up display (HUD).
The Golf GTI is available in several colors: Oryx White, Moonstone Grey, Grenadilla Black, Kings Red, and Anemone Blue.
The retail price for the VW Golf GTI 2025 starts at RM242,990, or RM255,990 including the Volkswagen Warranty Package.
For a limited time, the first 50 buyers will qualify for an exclusive price of RM249,990 with registration before December 31, 2025.
Bermaz Motor has announced the reintroduction of the Mazda3 with a 1.5-liter engine, featuring enhanced specifications and premium features.
This model is available in both sedan and hatchback body styles.
The naturally aspirated 1.5-liter SkyActiv-G engine can produce a power output of up to 118 hp at 6,000 rpm and a torque of 153 Nm at 4,000 rpm, driving the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission.
With a fuel tank capacity of 51 liters, the Mazda3 can achieve a fuel consumption figure as low as 5.8 liters per 100 km.
Included in its features are G-Vectoring Control Plus Technology, automatic LED headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a keyless entry system.
The cabin offers a seven-inch TFT mid-display, a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, dual-zone climate control, a wireless device charging slot, and rear air conditioning vents.
The Mazda3 also boasts leather upholstery on the steering wheel, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory function, a six-way manual adjustable passenger seat, paddle shifters, and a color head-up display.
Safety features include six airbags, ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Launch Assist (HLA), Seat Belt Reminder, ISOFIX anchors, and Auto Hold function.
It is also equipped with i-Activsense ADAS features, which include:
Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS)
High Beam Control (HBC)
Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)
Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS)
Lane Keeping Assist (LAS)
Driver Attention Alert (DAA)
Smart Brake Support (SBS) for front and rear
Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC)
Traffic Jam & Cruise Support (CTS)
There are several color options available, including Soul Red Crystal, Polymetal Gray, Jet Black, Platinum Quartz, Deep Crystal Blue, Machine Gray, and Snowflake White Pearl.
Imported fully from Japan (CBU), the Mazda3 is now open for orders, with a starting price of RM118,900.
Bermaz Motor, the official distributor of Mazda vehicles in Malaysia, has launched the facelifted version of the Mazda BT-50 for the local market.
Visually, the changes introduced to the BT-50 include:
A new grille structure featuring a larger Mazda logo
Headlights with dual L-shaped daytime running lights (DRL)
A front bumper now equipped with air curtain components
New LED taillights
A larger chrome Mazda logo
Newly designed wheels
The cabin features a seven-inch digital cluster display, a 9-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, USB charging ports, dual-zone climate control, and air conditioning vents for the second row.
Other equipment includes leather upholstery, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, a four-way manual passenger seat, and a manual parking brake lever.
This pickup truck retains a 3.0-liter turbo diesel engine that produces 188 hp at 3,600 rpm and 450 Nm of torque between 1,600 and 2,600 rpm.
The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel drive (4WD) system.
Driving features are enhanced with options such as Rough Terrain mode, Hill Descent Control (HDC), drive mode settings (2WD/4WD High/4WD Low), and a rear differential lock.
With a fuel tank capacity of 76 liters, the BT-50 offers a fuel consumption rate as low as 7.76 liters per 100 km.
Safety features include six airbags, ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a Seat Belt Reminder, and i-Activsense ADAS functions, including:
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
High Beam Assist (HBA)
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)
Driver Attention Alert (DAA)
Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS)
Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
Five color options are available: Concrete Gray Mica, Vermilion Latosol Mica, True Black Mica, Geode White Pearl, and Sailing Blue Mica.
This fully imported unit (CBU) from Thailand is priced starting at RM138,000.
Toyota continues to strengthen its vision of “Mobility for All,” ensuring that no one is left behind through the Multi-Pathway Approach implemented over the past few years.
In the next three years, Toyota plans to introduce more than 10 electrified vehicles (xEV) for the Asian market.
The company also announced its “30 by 30” mission, targeting a sales goal of 30 percent xEVs in the ASEAN market by 2030, which translates to over 1.5 million units sold.
This goal equates to a positive environmental impact, such as planting 25 million trees or reducing CO2 emissions by 8 million tons.
Additionally, Toyota announced plans to begin battery electric vehicle (BEV) production in Thailand and Indonesia by the end of this year.
One of the planned BEV models will be built on the IMV (Innovative International Multi-Purpose Vehicle) platform, which serves as the foundation for popular models like the Hilux, Fortuner, Innova, and the Land Cruiser FJ.
Speaking of the Land Cruiser FJ, this compact model will be assembled in Thailand before being exported to the Asian market.
Through the Land Cruiser FJ, Toyota aims to offer new value in the form of Freedom & Joy that customers can enjoy in their own unique ways, while simultaneously maintaining reliability, durability, and off-road performance to meet their lifestyles.
At least, that’s the characteristic BYD aims to highlight with its latest electric sedan, the BYD Seal 6, launched two months ago.
With a competitive price starting at RM100,000, the BYD Seal 6 successfully recorded sales of over 100 units in the first week following its launch.
A few weeks ago, BYD Malaysia invited us for a brief test drive to Janda Baik and Genting Highlands to experience the Premium variant of the BYD Seal 6 first-hand.
Here are our brief notes:
Dimensions and Design
The BYD Seal 6 is positioned as a C-segment sedan, significantly larger than competing models such as the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic.
Its body design is less sporty compared to the more premium Seal, reminding the author of electric sedan models from Mercedes, namely the EQE and EQS.
However, a notable advantage of the Seal 6 is its cargo capacity of 525 liters, consisting of a 460-liter trunk and a 65-liter frunk.
Additionally, with a wheelbase of 2,820 mm, the Seal 6’s cabin feels spacious and comfortable, enhanced further by its flat rear floor structure.
On-Road Performance
The Premium variant we tested is equipped with a rear-wheel-drive electric motor producing 215 hp and 330 Nm of torque.
Driving is aided by MacPherson strut suspension at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, tuned for Malaysian road conditions.
Acceleration feels relatively linear, with no sudden jolts that might strain the driver’s neck. With responsive throttle control, the Seal 6 can achieve desired speeds smoothly.
The suspension tuning effectively minimizes vibrations and road irregularities from disturbing passengers’ comfort.
Although it features a rear-wheel-drive setup, the Seal 6 does not exhibit a sporty character when driven aggressively.
This is due in part to the steering feel, which the author found underwhelming, and the rubber tires at all four corners, which felt less confident, especially in corners.
The benefits of the mentioned suspension tuning also diminish when driving up Genting Highlands, where the sedan can feel a bit floaty in most corners.
Cabin Experience
This sedan may not be the best choice for those seeking high-performance driving.
However, for most users, it offers more than adequate comfort.
The synthetic leather seats are sufficiently comfortable, providing ample support for the driver, with cushion dimensions that adequately support the thighs.
Rear seating is spacious and comfortable, complemented by a flat floor design.
The minimalist dashboard layout houses a 12-inch central screen that is non-rotatable but includes essential vehicle functionalities.
Importantly, it features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which are essential in any modern car.
There are still some physical function buttons on the center console, along with a smartphone holder that includes wireless charging capabilities.
Fortunately, the side mirror adjustment function is still maintained on the door panel.
However, it’s unfortunate that despite having advanced safety features like AEB, FCW, LDW, and a 360-degree camera, the sedan lacks blind-spot monitoring (BSM) even in higher variants.
An Alternative to C-Segment Sedans?
Yes, with a price below RM120,000, the BYD Seal 6 can be a strong alternative for those needing a spacious, comfortable, and modern sedan.
Or if you are affected by the recent Budi95 subsidy.
In any case, consider your own needs and preferences. As we have emphasized before, test drive the vehicle before making any decisions.
Proton has unveiled the specifications for the 2026 Proton Saga A-segment sedan, set to launch soon.
While it still utilizes the same platform, the Saga now features a refreshed look, a new engine, and a more modern dashboard layout.
Here are some key facts you should know:
Engine
The lifespan of the Campro 1.3-liter engine has come to an end; the Saga is now equipped with a new 1.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four engine producing 120 PS and 150 Nm of torque.
According to Proton, this Atkinson cycle engine, equipped with DVVT technology, can offer the following benefits:
Fuel consumption as low as 4.9 liters per 100 km, representing a 14.04 percent improvement in efficiency.
A 25.24 percent reduction in noise, contributing to better NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) levels.
There are two transmission options available: a CVT specifically for the Premium variant and a 4-speed automatic transmission for the Executive and Standard variants.
Safety
The 2026 Proton Saga now offers significantly enhanced safety features compared to its predecessor.
It comes equipped with six airbags (likely for the higher variants), as well as nine ADAS functions assisted by a monocular camera system and rear side radar (RSRS), including:
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
Forward Vehicle Moving Alert (FDA)
Intelligent High Beam Control (IHBC)
Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
Door Opening Warning (DOW)
Rear Collision Warning (RCW)
Lane Change Assistance (LCA)
Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
Additionally, the Saga’s chassis is reinforced with four RESS (Reinforced Safety Structure) components.
Cabin
The Saga’s cabin is now outfitted with a 16-inch horizontal screen featuring two integrated displays: a 7-inch digital meter screen and a 9-inch infotainment screen.
Good news—the Saga now supports wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The air conditioning vents have also received a fresh design along with the gear knob, while the steering wheel remains the same unit found in the Proton X50.
Unlike previous versions which relied on hydraulic steering, the 2026 Saga now features an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system.
Other features include two-tone leatherette seats, storage in the center console, a Type-A USB charging port, a tea hook, and physical climate control knobs.
According to Proton, the dimensions of the front and rear seats are now larger and wider.
Exterior
From the side, the Saga does not showcase major changes, except for the all-new 15-inch wheel design (14-inch for the Standard variant).
From the front, the Saga comes with LED projector headlights complete with LED daytime running lights (DRL), followed by a grille adorned with songket embroidery elements and the Ethereal Bow design.
The rear lights have also been updated with neater 3D graphics.
With all these new features and improvements valued at RM12,000, what price will Proton set for this new Saga?
Aveta Malaysia has updated its popular Nova 160 scooter model with the launch of the Nova 160 Signature Edition (SE).
The new variant is equipped with standard safety features, including a two-channel ABS and Traction Control System (TCS).
Buyers can select from three new color options: Teal Green, Copper Blaze, and Dark Blue.
In terms of specifications, the Nova 160 retains its single-cylinder 154.4 cc engine, which produces 15.8 hp at 8,500 rpm and a torque of 14.7 Nm at 6,500 rpm, paired with a CVT transmission.
The suspension setup consists of telescopic forks at the front and dual shock absorbers at the rear.
Features include LED lighting units, a smart keyless entry system, a USB charging port, an LCD meter panel, a 10-liter fuel tank, and a seat height of 778 mm.
The retail price starts at RM8,388 on the road, excluding insurance and road tax.
However, until December 2025, the Nova 160 SE is available at a promotional price of just RM8,088.
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