All posts by Hanif Su'ib

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

6th-gen Subaru Forester officially launched in Malaysia – priced at RM221,500

TC Subaru Sdn Bhd has officially launched the sixth-generation Forester for the Malaysian market.

The new Subaru Forester is offered in a single variant, the Forester 2.5i-S EyeSight, with a starting price of RM221,500—higher than its predecessor.

Here are some key facts you need to know:

 

Engine

The all-new Subaru Forester features a 2.5-liter boxer engine (FB25) that generates 182 hp at 5,800 rpm and torque of 247 Nm at 3,700 rpm.

This power is transmitted through the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system via a Lineartronic CVT.

Additionally, there’s a Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive) mode that allows drivers to select either the Intelligent or Sport mode, providing enhanced acceleration performance and better fuel efficiency.

 

Chassis

The new Forester is built on the Subaru Global Platform, featuring a chassis that is 10 percent stiffer, complemented by MacPherson strut and double wishbone suspension setups.

Its dimensions are 4,655 mm in length, 1,828 mm in width, and 1,730 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,670 mm.

For off-road driving, the Subaru Forester offers a ground clearance of 220 mm, along with dual-function X-Mode and Hill Descent Control (HDC).

 

Exterior

In terms of styling, the new Subaru Forester maintains a shape similar to the previous model but features a more aggressive and bold design.

It includes C-shaped LED headlights, a redesigned grille structure, 18-inch alloy wheels, angular wheel arches, practical roof rails, and the word “FORESTER” embossed on the rear door.

The Subaru Forester is available in several color options, including the new River Rock Pearl, Cashmere Gold Opal, and Daybreak Blue.

 

Interior

The Forester’s cabin houses an 11.6-inch central screen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a combination of analog gauges and a MID screen, and Type-A and Type-C USB charging ports.

The ergonomic seats were developed in collaboration with a medical center in Japan to reduce vibration and strain on the driver’s body.

In addition to 10-level adjustments, the driver’s seat also provides lumbar support.

Lastly, the rear cargo space can accommodate up to 2,107 liters, featuring a hands-free tailgate opening and a 60:40 split-folding second-row seat.

 

Safety

As standard, the Subaru Forester is equipped with eight SRS airbags and the EyeSight 4.0 system, which now utilizes a wide-angle monocular camera that is very effective at detecting pedestrians and cyclists.

Other safety features include an emergency stop system, driver monitoring system, 360-degree surround view camera, automatic reverse braking (RAB), and Active Torque Vectoring.

Engear Volt

iCaur V23 previewed in Malaysia – expected launch in Q4 2025, from RM145,000

iCaur Malaysia has unveiled its second electric SUV model, the iCaur V23, which is set to launch in the fourth quarter of this year (Q4 2025).

The estimated starting price ranges from RM145,000 to RM155,000.

Here are some key facts you should know:

 

Variants

Two variants will be available: 2WD and iWD.

The 2WD variant is powered by a single rear-wheel electric motor, producing 136 PS and 180 Nm, paired with a 59.9 kWh LFP battery.

The iWD variant features a dual-motor setup with an intelligent all-wheel-drive system, delivering a total power of 211 PS and 292 Nm, supported by an 81.8 kWh NMC battery.

The range can reach up to 401 km for the 2WD version and up to 501 km for the iWD variant.

 

Charging

The iCaur V23 supports standard AC charging of up to 6.6 kW.

Fast charging capabilities vary, with the 2WD variant supporting DC fast charging of up to 85 kW and the iWD variant up to 104 kW.

This SUV also includes a vehicle-to-load (V2L) function of up to 3.3 kW, making it suitable for outdoor activities.

 

Chassis

In terms of dimensions, the iCaur V23 measures 4,220 mm in length, 1,915 mm in width, and 1,845 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,735 mm.

This means it is actually shorter compared to the previously launched iCaur 03.

The suspension features a MacPherson strut in the front, supported by a multi-link setup in the rear.

The V23 employs a unibody chassis influenced by the design of several iconic off-road SUVs from earlier eras, including the Land Rover Defender, Toyota Land Cruiser, and Mercedes-Benz G-Class.

Notable features include round headlights, 19-inch wheels (21 inches for the iWD variant), side steps, and a side-opening rear door equipped with a small storage box.

 

Cabin

The V23 cabin presents a minimalist design but is equipped with several large, easily accessible physical buttons and knobs.

It also features a 15.4-inch display screen with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a 540-degree transparent chassis camera and a dedicated button for driving mode selection.

Safety

The V23 is equipped with an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) Level 2, which includes features such as adaptive cruise control (ACC), lane departure warning (LDW), and autonomous emergency braking (AEB).

NEWS

Is Honda bringing back the first generation NSX?

This is great news for fans of classic Japanese supercars.

Pininfarina, which previously created the NSX HP-X concept model, has announced a collaboration with JAS Motorsport to revive the original 1990s NSX.

This restomod project will utilize the original chassis, but Pininfarina will produce custom carbon fiber body panels.

Rest assured, it will adhere closely to the beloved original design of the NSX.

Based on the supplied images, the restomod NSX retains the iconic pop-up headlight construction but features modern LED lighting units.

This NSX will be available in both right-hand drive (RHD) and left-hand drive (LHD) versions.

The naturally aspirated 3.0-liter V6 engine will be retained but tuned for greater performance, paired with a six-speed manual transmission.

According to JAS, this NSX restomod project will be offered in a very limited number of units, which means a selling price that is significantly higher than that of used NSX models.

Although production has long been discontinued, the first generation Honda NSX still has a large following worldwide, and prices remain stubbornly high.

NEWS

2025 GAC M8 PHEV officially launched – two variants, from RM328,800

WTC Automotive (M) Sdn Bhd, the sole distributor of the GAC brand in Malaysia, has announced the retail price for the plug-in hybrid MPV model, the GAC M8 PHEV 2025.

The GAC M8 PHEV is available in two variants:

  • Premium – RM328,800
  • Luxury – RM388,800

Customers who place their orders before December 31, 2025, will receive a portable charging cable and a complimentary two-year maintenance package, valued at RM3,800.

The M8 PHEV is powered by a 2.0-liter turbo engine paired with a single electric motor and a two-speed hybrid DHT transmission.

The total power output reaches 372 PS with a torque of 630 Nm.

With a battery pack of 25.57 kWh and a fuel tank capacity of 56 liters, the M8 PHEV can travel up to 1,038 km.

There are three intelligent driving modes: Intelligent Hybrid, All-Electric First, and Power Reservation, supported by features such as the Adaptive Vehicle Dynamic Control System and Electromagnetic Damping Suspension.

In addition, the GAC M8 PHEV offers features like:

  • LED headlights
  • 18-inch alloy wheels with self-adjusting covers
  • Adjustable second and third-row seats up to 480 mm
  • Air conditioning system with Cool-Sense technology
  • Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS)
  • Full Automatic Parking Assist (FAPA)
  • Rear curtain airbags as part of a 360-degree airbag system

 

The GAC M8 PHEV comes with a five-year manufacturer warranty or a mileage limit of 150,000 km, as well as an eight-year battery warranty or a mileage limit of 150,000 km (whichever comes first).

EV, NEWS

MG S5 EV pricing revised – now starting from RM107,900

SAIC Motor Malaysia has announced a price revision for the MG S5 EV electric SUV model.

Effective immediately, the MG S5 EV now starts at RM107,900 for the COM variant, RM117,900 for the COM Long Range variant, and RM127,900 for the LUX Long Range variant.

Buyers will also benefit from the Ultimate Ownership Package, which offers savings of up to RM10,000, including:

  • A complimentary 7 kW AC wall charger, or
  • Charging credit options.

 

Customers can also choose to access the Ultimate MG Financing Package offered through authorized MG dealers nationwide.

The MG S5 EV is powered by a rear-wheel drive single electric motor that produces 170 PS and 250 Nm of torque.

There are two battery pack options: a 49 kWh battery providing a driving range of up to 340 km, and a 62 kWh battery offering a range of up to 430 km (WLTP cycle data).

All variants support 7 kW AC charging; however, the LUX variant also supports DC fast charging of up to 150 kW, allowing for charging from 10 to 80 percent in just 26 minutes.

According to Emory QiFeng, Managing Director of SAIC Motor Malaysia, “This price revision demonstrates our commitment to making EV ownership more affordable for Malaysians, in line with our preparations for a local assembly strategy.”

NEWS

2025 Suzuki GSX-8T, GSX-8TT now in Malaysia – prices starting from RM59,600

Suzuki Malaysia Sdn Bhd has announced the arrival of two new motorcycle models, the Suzuki GSX-8T and Suzuki GSX-8TT, coinciding with the recent MotoGP Malaysia event.

Both models are powered by a 776 cc DOHC parallel-twin engine, delivering 80 hp at 8,500 rpm and 77 Nm of torque at 6,800 rpm.

While built on a modern GSX-8 platform, both models feature distinct neo-retro styling.

The GSX-8T draws inspiration from the classic Suzuki T500 Titan, showcasing elements such as:

  • Round LED headlight unit
  • Unique fuel tank and seat finishing
  • 3D embossed logo on the side fairing

On the other hand, the GSX-8TT incorporates design influences from Suzuki’s street racing motorcycles of the 70s and 80s, such as the GS750 and GS1000, featuring:

  • Headlight housing
  • Engine guard (under cowl)
  • Blacked-out forks
  • Side stripe decorations

As standard, both models come equipped with the following features:

  • Upside-down telescopic forks / single rear shock absorber
  • Dual front disc brakes / single rear disc brake
  • Five-inch TFT display
  • Ride-by-Wire throttle system
  • Two-way quick-shifter
  • Two-channel ABS
  • Suzuki Intelligent Ride System
  • 16.5-liter fuel tank
  • Seat height of 815 mm

The selling price starts at RM59,600 for the GSX-8T model and RM63,600 for the GSX-8TT model.

2025 Suzuki GSX-8T

2025 Suzuki GSX-8TT

NEWS

Shell Malaysia launches Shell Advance Ultra 10W-50 motorcycle lubricant

Shell Malaysia has launched the premium motorcycle lubricant, Shell Advance Ultra 10W-50, marking 26 years of technical collaboration with Ducati Corse at the 2025 MotoGP in Malaysia.

This new lubricant is formulated with Shell PurePlus technology, a revolutionary process that converts natural gas into clear base oil with a purity of up to 99.5 percent.

It is designed to provide the power, performance, and protection required, while also meeting the latest API SP standards.

In a random test, Shell Advance Ultra was also evaluated against another ester-based lubricant.

Most of the participating riders chose Shell Advance due to its proven performance in acceleration, gear shifting, and engine sound.

Additionally, Shell Advance Ultra maintains horsepower across a wide speed range for up to 20,000 km, delivering long-lasting performance, cleaner engines (over 90 percent), and improved fuel efficiency (5 km further per liter).

Shell Advance is also the only motorcycle lubricant used and recommended by Ducati Corse.

This longstanding technical partnership has powered Ducati Corse to secure a historic treble in winning the 2025 MotoGP Teams’ World Championship, Constructors’ Championship and Riders’ Championship with Marc Marquez.

The launch of Shell Advance Ultra also marks the beginning of the #CrazyGoodOil campaign in Malaysia, featuring Ducati Corse riders Marc Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia.

In addition to the premium 10W-50 oil, the Shell Advance product line includes other premium products such as:

  • Advance Power 15W-50
  • Advance Long Ride 10W-40
  • Semi-synthetic AX7 series 10W-40 and 15W-50

According to Darlina Mohd Sibi, General Manager of the Shell Lubricants Cluster for Malaysia/Singapore and Southeast Asia, “Shell Advance, the number one motorcycle oil brand in Malaysia, continues to enhance its technical collaboration with Ducati Corse, bringing world-class innovations from the MotoGP track directly to riders in Malaysia.

“Our flagship product, Shell Advance Ultra, was developed in partnership with Ducati and tested under extreme conditions to deliver unmatched power, protection, and performance on the road and track,” she added.

NEWS

2025 CFMoto 250SR Lite debuts at Sepang Circuit, priced at RM9,988

Mforce Bike Holdings, through CFMoto Malaysia, has announced the arrival of its latest model, the CFMoto 250SR Lite, in the Malaysian market.

This motorcycle is powered by a 249 cc single-cylinder DOHC liquid-cooled engine, which produces 27.5 hp at 9,750 rpm and a torque of 22 Nm at 7,250 rpm.

The engine is paired with a six-speed gearbox, enhanced by a slipper clutch for smoother gear shifts.

In terms of handling, the 250SR Lite features telescopic forks at the front and a single shock absorber at the rear.

The braking system includes a two-piston caliper and a 292 mm single rotor at the front, complemented by a single-piston caliper and a 220 mm rotor at the back, supported by a two-channel ABS system.

Additional features include a fully LED lighting unit, an LCD display panel, USB Type-A and Type-C charging ports, 17-inch rims, and sporty-style exhaust.

The fuel tank has a capacity of 12 liters, while the seat height is set at 780 mm.

For the Malaysian market, the CFMoto 250SR Lite is available in three colors: Nebula Black, Gem Black, and Zephyr Blue.

The retail price starts at RM9,988, excluding road tax and insurance.

NEWS

2025 MODENAS Z15GT officially launched – priced at RM8,288

MODENAS has officially launched the highly anticipated supermoped model, the MODENAS Z15GT 2025, for the Malaysian market.

It features a single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine with a capacity of 149.5 cc, capable of generating 16.8 hp at 9,500 rpm and a torque of 13.5 Nm.

This power is transmitted to the wheels via a six-speed transmission.

The Z15GT measures 1,980 mm in length, 670 mm in width, and 1,100 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 1,315 mm and a weight of approximately 128 kg.

The fuel tank capacity is 5.7 liters, while the seat height is 780 mm.

The suspension consists of a telescopic fork at the front, followed by a single shock absorber at the rear, and the braking system features front and rear disc brakes.

Unfortunately, it is equipped with only a single-channel ABS.

Among the features included are:

  • LED lighting system at the front and rear, including DRL and turn signals
  • Hazard lights
  • Smart key system
  • LCD instrument panel
  • Type-A USB charging socket

For information, the MODENAS Z15GT showcases Kawasaki’s DNA in its design, particularly the Sugomi elements from the Z model, which can be seen in the front and rear lights.

Additionally, the arowana fish motif also influences the aggressive and aerodynamic design of the Z15GT, giving it a distinctive personality.

There are three color options available: Graphite Grey, Nardo Grey, and Rosso Red.

For the Malaysian market, the MODENAS Z15GT 2025 is priced starting from RM8,288.

NEWS

Over 400 AirAsia Ride drivers benefit from IGL Coatings’ hydrophobic class coating technology

AirAsia Ride is the first e-hailing platform in Malaysia to integrate hydrophobic glass coating technology on its fleet of vehicles.

This collaboration with IGL Coatings aims to benefit more than 400 AirAsia Ride drivers in the Klang Valley, Johor, and Penang.

In a pilot program, 120 AirAsia Ride drivers were the first group to receive the newly launched IGL hydrophobic glass coating.

Additionally, 300 IGL Window DIY kits will be distributed to drivers, customers, and users of AirAsia Ride across Malaysia.

The graphene-based coating technology from IGL enhances glass clarity during heavy rain and nighttime driving.

As a result, it allows drivers to maintain better visibility and control, reducing fatigue and contributing to a more comfortable journey for passengers.

According to Ramanathan A.M.N. Tiagarajan, Chief Financial Officer of AirAsia MOVE, “This collaboration reflects our ongoing commitment to empower the driver community and provide the best travel experience for passengers.”

Keong Chun Chieh, Founder of IGL Coatings, stated, “From protecting cars and surfaces to now safeguarding road users, this partnership is a meaningful step towards safer roads and a stronger appreciation for those who drive to advance our cities.”

NEWS

Aeson Power launches Sodium-ion automotive battery series in Malaysia, priced from RM369

Aeson Power has recently introduced a series of Sodium-ion (Na-ion) automotive batteries for the Malaysian market.

Compared to traditional lead-acid batteries, Sodium-ion batteries offer a safer, longer-lasting energy solution and serve as a more efficient alternative.

These latest batteries are compatible with over 95 percent of vehicles on the market, including private cars, commercial vehicles, industrial applications, and utilities.

They are designed to withstand Malaysia’s hot and humid tropical climate, significantly reducing the risk of fire and explosion.

In addition to stable operation in long-term conditions at temperatures of up to 80 degrees Celsius, these Sodium-ion batteries can maintain over 85 percent capacity even after being stored for a month at 60 degrees Celsius.

Utilizing polyanion cathode technology, Aeson Power’s Sodium-ion batteries offer several advantages, including:

  • Lightweight design
  • Fast charging capability (0-100 percent in 40 minutes)
  • Starting power two to three times greater
  • Cycle life up to three times longer, reaching 3,000 cycles
  • Operational voltage range from 6-14V, allowing engine starts even at 10.5V
  • Resistance to over-discharge with immediate recovery after full discharge

 

Three types of Sodium-ion batteries are available:

  • NaPulse Starting
  • NaPulse Start-Stop
  • NaForce Start-Stop

All three battery types are now available in the Malaysian market, with prices starting as low as RM369 and a three-year warranty included.

According to Jin Chan, Managing Director of Aeson Power, “Today’s launch marks a significant achievement for Aeson Power, and we are proud to introduce Sodium-ion automotive batteries to Malaysia’s dynamic market.

“This product is a testament to our commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions that not only elevate automotive performance but also contribute to a more sustainable future.”

NEWS

2025 WMoto Bobbie 450S officially launched in Malaysia – starting price from RM19,888

WMoto Malaysia has recently launched the latest cruiser model, the 2025 WMoto Bobbie 450S in conjunction with the opening of the Mforce Best Shop located in Johor Bahru.

This cruiser is powered by a liquid-cooled, 449 cc DOHC twin-cylinder engine that produces 49.6 hp at 9,500 rpm and a torque of 39 Nm at 7,600 rpm.

The engine is paired with a six-speed transmission and a chain final drive system.

The suspension features a 29-degree angled telescopic fork at the front, followed by adjustable twin shock absorbers at the rear, each offering a wheel travel of 130 mm and 100 mm, respectively.

The braking system uses a 320 mm rotor at the front and a 256 mm rotor at the rear, assisted by a two-channel ABS system.

Notable features include LED lighting units, which include daytime running lights (DRL), a digital LED meter display, a Type-A USB charging port, a dual exhaust silencer, a steering damper, and a parking brake.

The fuel tank capacity is 15 liters, while the seat height stands at 650 mm.

There are three color options available: Ground Sand Ash, Gulf Custom, and Matte Black. The selling price starts from RM19,888, excluding road tax and insurance.

NEWS

2025 Honda RS-X Winner Tricolor Edition – 800 units only, priced at RM10,298

Boon Siew Honda has launched the RS-X Winner model with Honda’s iconic Tricolor livery for the local market in conjunction with the recent Honda Thanks Day event.

Limited to just 800 units, the RS-X Winner Tricolor Edition comes with RCB accessories, which include:

  • RCB Brake Caliper S-26 Series (30th Anniversary Edition)
  • RCB Handle Grip Nagamaki
  • RCB Lever Guard

 

Each purchase of this limited edition model is accompanied by a two-year manufacturer’s warranty or a mileage limit of 20,000 km (whichever comes first), along with an additional one-year unlimited mileage warranty under the Honda X-tend campaign.

The base specifications remain unchanged, featuring a single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine with a displacement of 149.2 cc that produces 15.8 hp at 9,000 rpm and torque of 13.6 Nm at 7,000 rpm.

The transmission is a six-speed type, supported by an Assist & Slipper clutch.

The RS-X Winner utilizes a telescopic fork setup in the front, followed by a single shock absorber at the rear, while the brakes employ a hydraulic disc system with single-channel ABS.

The fuel tank has a capacity of 4.5 liters, and the seat height is 795 mm.

The selling price starts at RM10,298, excluding road tax, insurance, and registration fees.

BSH also offers standard colors such as Green, Matte Gray, and Blue, starting from RM9,998, or a special Yellow color priced at RM10,298.

NEWS

2025 Yamaha YZF-R25 officially launched in Malaysia – priced at RM23,098

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) has officially launched the upgraded 250 cc Yamaha YZF-R25 for 2025 model year.

The most significant change in this facelift version is undoubtedly its appearance, featuring a design inspired by the larger R models, sharper headlights, and a new taillight.

Additionally, the LCD display now includes connectivity to the Y-Connect smartphone application.

In terms of power, the R25 is equipped with a 249.5 cc engine capable of generating 35.4 hp at 12,000 rpm and a torque of 22.5 Nm at 10,000 rpm, paired with a six-speed transmission and assist/slipper clutch.

The suspension consists of an inverted telescopic fork at the front, followed by a single shock absorber at the rear.

The braking system features a dual-piston caliper in the front, a single-piston caliper in the back, and comes standard with a two-channel ABS braking system.

The fuel tank capacity is 14 liters, while the seat height is 780 mm.

For the Malaysian market, there are two color options available: Pearl Blue and Racing Blue, with a starting price of RM23,098.

EV, NEWS

Bookings for 2025 smart #5 now open, launch coming soon

Proton New Energy Technology (Pro-Net) has announced the opening of bookings for the 2025 smart #5 electric SUV model, which will be launched soon.

Interested Malaysians can reserve the smart #5 through the Hello smart app or the official smart Malaysia website, with a reservation fee of RM2,000.

Two variants are available: Premium and Brabus.

The smart #5 Premium features a rear-wheel-drive electric motor delivering 358 hp and 373 Nm of torque, with acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds.

On the other hand, the smart #5 Brabus comes with a dual-motor setup providing 637 hp and 710 Nm of torque, allowing for acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in as little as 3.8 seconds.

Equipped with a 100 kWh NMC battery pack, this SUV can travel up to 590 km (WLTP data) on a full charge, or up to 540 km for the Brabus variant.

With an 800V electric architecture, the smart #5 supports AC charging at 22 kW, as well as DC fast charging at 400 kW, enabling the battery to charge from 10% to 80% state of charge in just 15 minutes.

Other features include:

  • 1,530 liters of cargo space and a 72-liter frunk
  • Dual 13-inch OLED display screens
  • 25.6-inch augmented reality head-up display
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support
  • Sennheiser audio system with 20 speakers and Dolby Atmos technology
  • Nappa leather upholstery
  • Oak wood trim
  • 1.7 square meter panoramic glass roof
  • Built-in cooler in the center console storage compartment

 

The Brabus variant also includes additional features such as Launch Mode, Dinamica microfiber upholstery, red brake calipers, 21-inch Brabus Monoblock Z rims, and sport-tuned suspension.

The smart #5 offers safety features including a 360-degree camera and Smart Pilot Assist, which includes Highway Pilot Assist (HWA) with Stop & Go functionality for semi-automatic driving on highways.

 

smart #5 Brabus

smart #5 Premium

NEWS

2025 Voge SR3 officially launched – priced at RM15,888

Mforce Bike Holdings through Voge Malaysia, has officially launched the latest Voge SR3 scooter for the local market.

Powered by a single-cylinder 244.3 cc SOHC liquid-cooled engine, the scooter produces a maximum power of 26 hp at 8,250 rpm and a torque of 23 Nm at 6,500 rpm.

This power is transmitted to the wheels via a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) system combined with a V-belt final drive.

The suspension features a telescopic fork that provides a front wheel travel of 103 mm, accompanied by dual rear shock absorbers with a rear wheel travel of 130 mm.

The braking system utilizes front and rear disc brakes, aided by a two-channel ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a parking brake function.

Notable features include a smart key system with a mechanical key backup, full LED lighting, an adjustable windscreen, heated grips, and a USB Type-A charging port.

The seven-inch TFT display also provides Bluetooth connectivity for incoming call notifications and voice control.

Additional safety features include an adjustable Traction Control System (TCS), a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), a front-facing riding camera, and a side stand safety switch.

The 2025 Voge SR3 is available in three color options: white, silver, and gray, with a starting price of RM15,888, excluding road tax and insurance.

NEWS

Lepas set to enter the Malaysian market next year

Another sub-brand of Chery, Lepas, will officially be introduced to the Malaysian market in the first half of 2026.

This was announced by Chery Corporate Malaysia during the recently held Chery International User Summit 2025 at Chery’s headquarters in Wuhu, China.

The introduction of this new brand is part of a multi-brand strategy designed to cater to the full spectrum of consumers in Malaysia.

For your information, Lepas is a combination of the words “Leap” and “Passion.”

The new premium sub-brand was officially announced during the Auto Shanghai 2025 exhibition held last April as a global brand featuring unique designs.

In addition to Lepas, several other Chery sub-brands are already established in Malaysia, such as Omoda, Jaecoo, and iCaur, as well as the Jetour brand, which is managed by a different entity.

EV, NEWS

Dongfeng Box EV receives 3-star Euro NCAP rating

Undeniably, Chinese automotive manufacturers are aggressively offering electric vehicle packages at more competitive prices.

However, aside from more affordable pricing, safety aspects must also be prioritized.

In Europe, the small-sized electric hatchback Dongfeng Nammi Box has only achieved a three-star rating out of a possible five stars in the Euro NCAP crash tests.

In the latest tests conducted, Euro NCAP found that the EV had failures at several welding points, which could increase the risk of cabin deformation and compromise passenger protection.

This issue was detected during a partial overlap crash test, where the Dongfeng Box, traveling at a speed of 50 km/h, collided with a deformable barrier weighing 1,400 kg, also moving at 50 km/h.

In addition to an unstable body structure, the Dongfeng Box also had problems such as a locking mechanism that failed to operate post-impact, insufficient steering wheel airbag pressure to protect the driver’s head, and a dashboard structure that could cause injuries to the front passenger’s legs.

The Box was also reported to have failed in reducing the passenger-to-passenger impact in the front row in the event of a side-impact collision.

As a result, the Dongfeng Box achieved only 69 percent in the Adult Occupant Protection category and 67 percent in the Vulnerable Road Users category.

According to Euro NCAP, vehicle size is not a major issue, as several similarly sized electric vehicles tested previously have received four or five-star ratings.

“There are several affordable EVs such as the BYD Dolphin Surf, Firefly, MINI Cooper e, Lynk & Co 02, and Renault 4 and Renault 5 that have achieved four or five-star ratings, highlighting the safety gap between these EVs and the Dongfeng Box.”

“This failure must be addressed to align with competing models in the rapidly growing EV market,” Euro NCAP stated in a release.

NEWS

Toyota Land Cruiser FJ: A compact off-roader derived from the Hilux platform

Ahead of the Japan Mobility Show 2025, Toyota has revealed another new model to complement its existing Land Cruiser family, named the Land Cruiser FJ.

With a more compact size, the Land Cruiser FJ is positioned as an entry-level LC without compromising on durability, reliability, and off-road driving performance.

The 2026 Land Cruiser FJ will be showcased at Toyota’s booth during the Japan Mobility Show 2025, which will take place on October 30.

Here are some key facts about the 2026 Land Cruiser FJ:

 

1. Platform

Unlike the Land Cruiser 300 Series and 250 Series, which are built on the TNGA-F platform, the Land Cruiser FJ uses the IMV platform.

This means that the FJ is a sibling to models such as the Hilux, Fortuner, and the first two generations of the Innova.

Although it uses a somewhat older platform, Toyota has equipped the FJ with additional underfloor braces and a stiffer body to ensure more stable handling.

 

2. Dimensions

The Land Cruiser FJ measures 4,575 mm in length, 1,855 mm in width, and 1,960 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,580 mm—significantly smaller than the Land Cruiser 300 Series and 250 Series.

When placed next to the Corolla Cross, the FJ has a length advantage of 114 mm, though its wheelbase is 58 mm shorter.

 

3. Exterior

The boxy design of the Land Cruiser FJ draws heavily from the Land Cruiser 250 Series design.

For example, the FJ is available with two different front-end designs, one featuring C-shaped DRLs and the other using round DRLs.

The presence of a full-size spare tire mounted at the rear enhances the rugged image of the FJ.

According to Toyota, this model also features easily replaceable front and rear bumper angles, and it can accommodate various accessories.

Among these is the Land Hopper, an electric-powered personal mobility vehicle with a three-wheeled setup that can fold and be stored in the cargo space.

 

4. Interior Space

The FJ’s cabin continues to showcase a large, easily accessible array of physical control buttons.

In addition to a centralized infotainment screen, a digital cluster screen is also provided for enhanced driver convenience.

In the center console, there is a physical gear knob complete with a handbrake lever and a rotary dial specifically for off-road driving.

 

5. Engine

The Land Cruiser FJ is powered by a 2.7-liter inline four-cylinder 2TR-FE engine that produces 163 PS and 246 Nm of torque.

This power is channeled to a part-time 4WD system through a Super ECT 6-speed automatic transmission.

Additionally, Toyota has no plans to market this “baby” Land Cruiser in markets such as the United States and Europe.

Instead, Toyota will focus the Land Cruiser FJ on markets such as Southeast Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East.

This off-road SUV will be assembled at Toyota’s factory located in Thailand.

NEWS

2025 WMoto Nexy+180 officially launched in Malaysia – prices starting from RM8,988

In conjunction with the opening of Mforce Best Shop in Johor Bahru, WMoto Malaysia has launched the latest scooter, the 2025 Nexy+180.

This scooter is powered by a single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine with a displacement of 174 cc, producing 18.2 hp @ 8,500 rpm and torque of 17.2 Nm @ 6,500 rpm, paired with a CVT gearbox.

The suspension consists of a front telescopic fork with a wheel travel of 103 mm, followed by dual shock absorbers with a wheel travel of 130 mm.

The braking system features a four-piston caliper with a single 260 mm rotor at the front, complemented by a single-piston caliper and a 220 mm rotor at the rear.

Safety features include a dual-channel ABS braking system, traction control (TCS), a side stand safety switch, and a front-mounted riding recorder.

Notable features include front and rear LED lighting units, daytime running lights (DRL), a windscreen, a 6-inch TFT display, USB Type-A and Type-C charging ports, storage space with a magnetic cover, and a rear luggage rack.

The WMoto Nexy+180 also supports Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to connect to third-party applications such as Carbit Ride and Roadcam.

Available in four attractive colors: Magic Blue, Midnight Black, Nardo Grey, and Xtreme White.

The retail price starts at RM8,988, excluding road tax and insurance.