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

2025 Kawasaki Z900 officially launched in Malaysia – priced from RM47,800

Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional Sdn Bhd (MODENAS) today launched the new Kawasaki Z900 2025 in conjunction with the opening of the Kawasaki Technical Centre (KTC) in Glenmarie.

The Kawasaki Z900 is powered by a 948 cc liquid-cooled inline-four engine that produces 123 hp at 9,500 rpm and 97.4 Nm of torque at 7,700 rpm.

 

This power is transmitted to the wheels through a six-speed transmission paired with an assist/slipper clutch.

The bike’s suspension features 41 mm inverted telescopic forks at the front, complemented by a horizontal back-link setup at the rear.

The braking system employs four-piston calipers with two 300 mm rotors at the front, followed by a single-piston caliper with a 250 mm rotor at the rear.

 

The Z900 comes equipped with several electronic assistance features, including:

  • Two-channel ABS
  • Quickshifter
  • Electronic cruise control
  • Traction control (KTRC)
  • Riding modes
  • Kawasaki Cornering Management Function (KCMF)

A five-inch TFT display supports connectivity to the RIDEOLOGY app, along with turn-by-turn navigation functionality.

In addition to the standard variant, the Kawasaki Z900 is also available in an SE variant that includes a package featuring:

  • Adjustable 41 mm inverted front forks
  • Ohlins S46 gas rear shock absorbers
  • Brembo braking system with M4.32 calipers and dual 300 mm rotors

The Kawasaki Z900 2025 is available at all Kawasaki All-Star and Kawasaki Exclusive dealers across the country, with color options including:

  • Metallic Moondust Grey/Metallic Spark Grey/Candy Lime Green with a Golden Blaze Green frame
  • Metallic Spark Black/Metallic Carbon Grey/Flat Super Black
  • Striking Metallic Matte Graphic Grey/Ebony/Metallic Graphite Grey with a Golden Blaze Green frame exclusive to the SE variant

The retail prices are as follows:

  • Kawasaki Z900 – RM47,800
  • Kawasaki Z900 SE – RM60,100
EV, TEST DRIVE

5 things you need to know about the Proton e.MAS 5 – first drive

To be frank, the Proton e.MAS 5 is currently one of the most interesting small electric vehicles to consider.

With an estimated selling price ranging from RM60,000 to RM80,000, the e.MAS 5 is highly suitable as a daily use vehicle.

A brief test drive conducted recently revealed some insights into what you can expect from the e.MAS 5.

Here is our concise review:

 

1. Compact Size, Yet Ample Space

It’s true that the e.MAS 5 appears compact when seen in person, even smaller than the BYD Dolphin.

However, as an electric vehicle, the e.MAS 5 offers adequate storage space, featuring a 70-liter frunk and a 375-liter cargo area (which can expand to 1,320 liters with the rear seats folded down).

Need more space? There are up to 32 storage compartments around the cabin, including a 28-liter drawer beneath the rear seats and a 20-liter space under the center console.

 

2. Comfortable Driving Position

Upon entering the cabin, I found the seats in the e.MAS 5 to be quite comfortable.

The dimensions of the driver’s seat cushion provide ample support for the thighs, making for a comfortable and less fatiguing drive.

It’s worth noting that the e.MAS 5 only features manual seat adjustments, which I personally don’t mind—fewer electronic systems to depend on.

The steering wheel is adjustable only up and down, with no telescopic adjustment.

For me, the driving position is quite comfortable, although it may not suit those with larger, taller physiques.

 

3. Acceleration and Braking

The variant I test drove was the e.MAS 5 Premium, equipped with a 114 hp/150 Nm electric motor.

While it isn’t the most powerful EV, it is sufficient for comfortable city driving and remains agile.

The e.MAS 5 can accelerate from 0 to 50 km/h in just 3.9 seconds. However, from my brief experience, it takes a bit longer to reach a top speed of 100 km/h.

What impressed me was the braking system, which can bring the vehicle to a stop from 100 to 0 km/h in just 36.9 meters without making the driver break a sweat.

 

4. Handling

Next, we were subjected to slalom and figure-eight handling tests.

With a turning radius as tight as 4.95 meters, a multi-link suspension setup, and rear-wheel drive, the e.MAS 5 displayed nimble characteristics and was easy to control.

The steering feel was adequate—not too light and quite precise.

Changing direction suddenly posed no issue; the e.MAS 5’s steering response was reassuring.

I also didn’t have to make frequent steering corrections when navigating through winding roads.

 

5. How Does It Handle on Highways?

In the next session, I experienced driving the e.MAS 5 on a high-speed track.

My conclusion? The e.MAS 5 is very stable at speeds reaching three digits.

I was pleasantly surprised to find that the suspension tuning of the e.MAS 5 felt superior compared to its larger sibling, the e.MAS 7, with significantly less body roll in corners.

Additionally, the steering was confidently tuned even at high speeds, needing minimal corrections to keep the EV on track.

The only downside I noticed was wind noise at 110 km/h, and you’ll have to be content with a maximum speed limit set at 140 km/h.

The Proton e.MAS 5 is set to launch soon, so what are your thoughts on this affordable Malaysian EV?

NEWS

Honda unveils Civic Type R HRC Rally XP rally car ahead of USGP

There remains untapped potential in Honda’s hot hatch, the Civic Type R FL5.

This was underscored by Honda’s introduction of the Civic Type R HRC Rally XP rally car in anticipation of the Formula One race in the United States this weekend.

Prominent features include the HRC racing livery, mud flaps, Speedline alloy wheels with rally specifications, and all-terrain tire wraps.

The appearance of the American Rally Association (ARA) logo indicates that this vehicle will participate in the upcoming ARA National Championship season.

The Civic Type R FL5 retains its distinctive rear wing and large openings in the front bumper; however, additional vents are now available on the engine hood for cooling purposes.

The original triple exhaust outlets have been replaced with a more streamlined single pipe.

In the cabin, the red bucket seats have been upgraded, and the door panels and digital meter cluster have been removed.

It is now equipped with a pair of racing seats, a roll cage, OMP steering wheel, a vertical handbrake lever, and a new digital instrument panel complete with gear change indicator lights.

No details about the engine specifications have been disclosed, but it is likely that the original K20 engine is retained, paired with a six-speed transmission, albeit with tuning more suitable for racing.

Similarly, the suspension settings and limited-slip differential (LSD) components may also undergo upgrades.

Notably, this vehicle features the name Liam Lawson, an F1 driver from the Red Bull team.

NEWS

Sime Motors celebrates 45th anniversary with performance by the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra

Sime Motors recently celebrated its 45th anniversary with a performance by the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra alongside stakeholders.

The gala dinner showcased world-class music under the baton of renowned conductor Gerald Salonga, featuring pianist Liu Muyu and prominent singer Aina Abdul.

Their performance delighted the audience and added vibrancy to the celebration, which honored the leadership and contributions of Sime Motors over 45 years to the Malaysian automotive industry.

In addition, Sime Motors acknowledged brand partners who have played a crucial role in the company’s growth and success.

The appreciation was personally presented by Andrew Basham, Managing Director of Sime Motors, along with Jeffrey Gan, Managing Director of Southeast Asia for Sime Motors, to representatives from BMW Group Malaysia, BYD, Denza, Ford Malaysia, Hyundai Malaysia, Jaguar Land Rover, Porsche Malaysia, and Volvo Cars Malaysia.

NEWS

Nabil Azlan crowned champion in the Pro Class of the 2025 Toyota GR Malaysia eRacing Championship

The 2025 Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia eRacing Championship concluded last weekend, showcasing remarkable performances from the country’s top simulation racers vying for a total cash prize of RM123,000.

Organized by UMW Toyota Motor, this championship also serves as a platform to discover the new generation of national racers.

There are two main categories: the Pro Championship, featuring elite simulation racers, and the Campus Tour, an initiative that brings professional-grade simulators to local universities to scout for new talent.

After three intense races in the final round, which was also the fourth and fifth rounds of the championship, siblings Nabil and Naquib Azlan emerged as the champion and overall runner-up in the Pro Class.

Meanwhile, Taj Izrin Aiman secured third place, successfully defending his GT title.

Twenty-six-year-old Taj Aiman will represent Malaysia at the Toyota GR Asia eSports GT Championship in Bangkok this November, joined by Iqbal Suji in second place and Chong Kai Chang in third.

This year, the Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia eRacing Championship featured a multi-platform format, including Assetto Corsa, RaceRoom, iRacing, and Gran Turismo 7.

Each platform showcased unique handling dynamics, compelling racers to adapt to various racing conditions, closely resembling international league standards.

This new format also saw 35 percent of the semi-final participants consisting of newcomers, many of whom have prior experience in sim racing.

According to Nabil, who took home a prize of RM25,000, “This year’s championship format is very different; it is not only better but also more challenging, forcing us to learn and adapt.

“Each platform tests various aspects of driving techniques and racing strategies. Sim racing has taught me to become a better and more competitive racer,” he added.

Additionally, the final race of the Campus Tour featured the ten fastest participants from each university, with Randy Goh from INTI Subang emerging as the champion.

Moreover, a Media Exhibition Race involved ten media practitioners who experienced the thrill of using professional simulators for the first time.

In the meantime, Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia has also announced the opening of registrations for the Toyota Gazoo Racing Young Talent Development program for the 2026 intake.

Open to simulation racers and kart racers aged between 16 and 22, the program offers a comprehensive training package under the guidance of professional mentors.

It has proven to be a platform that has produced many renowned racers in Malaysia.

Those interested can register at the website tyt.my/rookiesignup2026 before the application deadline on October 26, 2025.

NEWS

Ford launches more drift-friendly Mustang EcoBoost

Ford has introduced several high-performance variants based on the seventh-generation Mustang, including the Dark Horse and GTD models.

Now, another variant has been launched for enthusiasts who need not worry about budget constraints: the Mustang EcoBoost RTR Package.

With upgrade options from RTR, the Mustang EcoBoost is now more capable as a true drift machine.

Key features include Brembo brakes from the GT Performance Package, which comprise six-piston calipers at the front and four-piston calipers at the rear.

Additionally, the rear subframe from the Dark Horse model has been incorporated, along with front and rear sway bars for a stiffer chassis.

Other features include an optimized steering gear, new tuning for the stability control system, MagneRide dampers, an Electronic Drift Brake, and a high-performance exhaust system complete with four tips.

Visual upgrades include illuminated exhaust tips, an RTR grille and logo, a front fascia from the GT model, a GT Performance Pack spoiler at the rear, and Tarnished Dark Anodized accents.

Lastly, a Hyper Lime color package has been introduced to replace the black on the Brembo brake calipers, accompanied by unique stitching within the cabin.

The Ford Mustang EcoBoost does not come with a power upgrade, meaning it retains the 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, generating 315 hp and 475 Nm of torque.

Although it is only offered with a 10-speed automatic transmission, it still features the RTR anti-lag system taken from the GT race car.

The official sales price has not yet been disclosed.

NEWS

Sports cars like the IDx could attract young buyers, says Nissan CEO

Nissan is currently facing significant challenges, forcing the company to lay off a large number of employees and close several factories around the world.

While Nissan’s focus has shifted towards high-volume vehicle models, the manufacturer acknowledges that sporty models could be a game-changer and pique the interest of younger consumers.

Speaking to Kuruma News, Nissan CEO Ivan Espinosa explained that sports cars like the IDx could help revitalize the Nissan brand.

He added that such models have the potential to appeal to a younger demographic, making it essential for manufacturers to continuously attract younger consumers to their brand.

Espinosa also expressed his desire to revive the Silvia nameplate.

“The Nissan S15, particularly with its high-output 2.0-liter turbo engine, is one of the favorite cars in Nissan’s history. In my opinion, it is one of the best lightweight sports cars we have ever produced.”

He acknowledged that it is quite challenging to reproduce a car with a lightweight chassis while simultaneously meeting today’s stricter safety regulations.

Undoubtedly, if Nissan wants to follow in Toyota’s footsteps, the IDx concept model is a suitable candidate to be highlighted.

The IDx concept model was displayed at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show as a response to the Toyota 86/Subaru BRZ, featuring an exterior design inspired by the Datsun 510.

Unfortunately, the IDx has yet to be realized to date.

EV, NEWS

SAIC Motor Malaysia announces plan to assemble MG’s first EV in Melaka, starting in 2026

SAIC Motor Malaysia today announced plans to begin local assembly of MG vehicles in Malaysia in the first quarter of 2026, marking a significant milestone in bringing MG products closer to local customers while strengthening the brand’s regional growth.

The announcement was made by Mr Emory Qi, Managing Director of SAIC Motor Malaysia, in the presence of YBhg Datuk Dr Aminar Rashid, Chairman of the Malaysia Automotive Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii), and YBhg En. Hamidon Bin Abdullah, Executive Chairman of EP Manufacturing Berhad (EPMB), during a special event attended by partners, media, and key industry stakeholders.

“This remarkable journey would not have been possible without the support of our dealers, business partners, media, and colleagues,” said Emory Qi. “Local assembly will be a key milestone that brings us closer to customers while reinforcing our role as a regional hub for MG.”

As part of its commitment to accelerate localisation, SAIC Motor Malaysia will begin local assembly in partnership with EPMB in Melaka. The Melaka facility will be capable of assembling green energy vehicles including BEV and HEV, as well as internal combustion engine (ICE) models under one roof. The strategy focuses on three priorities: affordability, faster delivery, and stronger localisation, aligning with SAIC Motor’s vision of a green energy vehicle roadmap presented at Auto Shanghai 2025.

“We are pleased to partner with SAIC Motor – our second state-owned OEM partner – to assemble the MG models in Malaysia. One will be the first electric vehicle locally assembled at our Melaka plant. Through collaboration with local suppliers, we will accelerate localization, including battery pack assembly for MG vehicles, enhancing our value proposition and better serving the Malaysian market”, said En Hamidon Abdullah, Executive Chairman of EPMB.

“Our assembly line will fully meet customer demand, ensuring a smoother and faster ownership experience,” Emory added. “Most importantly, quality is non-negotiable. Every locally assembled vehicle will undergo stringent global-level inspections through SAIC’s Quality Sustenance Programme.”

SAIC Motor Malaysia highlighted several factors that make Malaysia the ideal location for local assembly. The 50-year friendship between Malaysia and China provides a strong foundation of trust and collaboration, while Malaysia’s strategic location within ASEAN positions it as a natural hub for regional distribution and growth. Beyond vehicle assembly, the investment will create jobs, strengthen the vendor ecosystem, and lay the groundwork for future R&D development in Malaysia.

“Today’s announcement is only the beginning,” Emory concluded. “Together with our partners and local talent, we are building a future where innovation, sustainability, and opportunity drive Malaysia forward with MG.”

Since its launch just over a year ago, SAIC Motor Malaysia has expanded its network to 26 MG Motor Authorised Dealerships nationwide, including three showrooms in Sarawak, with three more on the way. Its five-model line-up now includes the all-electric MGS5 EV, reflecting the brand’s shift toward green energy vehicles. The strong reception of the MG Cyberster has also made Malaysia the best-performing market in Asia and Oceania for the brand’s iconic all-electric roadster.

NEWS

2026 Honda CB1000F officially unveiled in Europe

Honda continues the legacy of the ‘CB’ family with the launch of the new CB1000F model for 2026.

Built on the CB1000 Hornet platform, the CB1000F is equipped with a re-tuned 1,000 cc inline-four engine, delivering a more powerful riding experience in the low to mid RPM range.

It is now capable of generating up to 122 hp at 9,000 rpm and a torque of 103 Nm at 8,000 rpm.

The gear ratio has also been revised, accompanied by an assist/slipper clutch for a more relaxed riding experience.

The suspension of the CB1000F consists of 41 mm inverted Showa SFF-BP front forks, complemented by Pro-Link suspension at the rear, offering wheel travel of 130 mm and 140 mm, respectively.

This retro roadster is also equipped with a Nissin braking system, featuring a four-piston brake caliper paired with dual 310 mm rotors at the front, along with a single-piston caliper and a 240 mm rotor at the rear.

Enhancing the modern retro style of this machine are the classic-style exhaust pipes, 17-inch aluminum rims, and front and rear LED lighting systems.

Standard features of the CB1000F include a dual-channel ABS system, supported by a six-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU), a throttle-by-wire (TBW) system, riding modes (Standard, Rain, and Sport), wheelie control, and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC).

Riders can access important information through a five-inch TFT display that can be paired with the RoadSync app.

The fuel tank capacity is 16 liters, while the seat height is set at 795 mm.

Three colors are available for the Honda CB1000F: Wolf Silver Metallic with blue stripes, Wolf Silver Metallic with gray stripes, and Graphite Black.

Owners can also purchase various accessories, including a more comfortable seat, engine guards, a headlamp housing, a quick shifter, radiator shrouds, a 3-liter tank bag, and soft luggage with a capacity of 10 liters for each side.

EV, NEWS

Daihatsu Midget X: a small electric LCV concept

Daihatsu is set to showcase several concept models at the Japan Mobility Show 2025, taking place at the end of this month.

One of the models on display will be the Midget X, a small electric vehicle designed for commercial use.

The exterior design of the Midget X serves as a reference and homage to the two previous generations of the Midget.

It features round LED headlights, a curved windshield, and exposed wheel designs.

In line with its nature as a workhorse, the rear of the Midget X can be fitted with various accessories, such as storage boxes, a flatbed, an open cargo area styled like a pickup, or a dedicated workspace.

Based on teaser videos, the Midget X can also be used as a weekend track car!

For now, the Daihatsu Midget X remains a concept vehicle, but it’s not impossible that it could also become a real production model.

NEWS

This Lexus LS Concept minivan features six wheels!

In addition to the two-door Century idea and the aggressively styled new-generation Corolla, Toyota has presented yet another bold concept: a minivan with six wheels!

This unique and out-of-the-box concept will be officially showcased at this year’s Tokyo Mobility Show.

Named the LS (Luxury Space?), it bears no direct relation to the LS sedan, which has been discontinued in several markets.

Instead, the Lexus LS Concept is a three-axle minivan that appears larger than the existing Lexus LM model.

Based on the single image provided, it is safe to assume that the Lexus LS Concept is an electric minivan featuring a spacious cabin, aided by its boxy shape and high roofline.

The front of this minivan showcases vertical LED lighting units, complemented by LED light strips that deliberately extend to the D-pillar to emphasize the vehicle’s height.

This six-wheeled minivan concept will also be displayed at the Japan Mobility Show 2025 later this month.

NEWS

Toyota Century Coupe: ultra-luxury GT concept to challenge Rolls-Royce

In addition to the four-door sedan concept model, the Toyota Corolla, Toyota has also unveiled an ultra-luxury two-door coupe (or grand tourer) concept that will bear the Century nameplate.

Yes, you read that correctly.

Recently, Toyota has been attempting to establish the Century as one of its ultra-luxury sub-brands, set to compete with rivals such as Bentley, Jaguar, and Rolls-Royce.

Unlike its existing sedan and SUV offerings, Toyota seems determined to provide a completely new body style under the Century brand.

There are several intriguing details that we can observe from the teaser images provided, such as:

  • A fairly long engine hood
  • A conventional door opening on the right side
  • The presence of double sliding doors on the left side
  • A centrally positioned driver seat
  • No rear windows

This coupe also features layered lighting designs at both the front and rear, resembling the existing Century SUV offerings.

Additionally, there are vents on the engine hood and a partially open grille structure (complete with a phoenix emblem), suggesting that this coupe may be available with an internal combustion engine.

More details are expected to be revealed ahead of the Japan Mobility Show 2025, which will kick off at the end of this month.

NEWS

Toyota Corolla Concept revealed: is this the next-gen Corolla?

In conjunction with the upcoming Japan Mobility Show 2025, Toyota seizes the opportunity to unveil several eye-catching concept models.

Among them is the Toyota Corolla Concept, which is expected to herald a new chapter for the world’s best-selling nameplate.

The concept model makes its appearance in a campaign titled “To You, Toyota.”

Several details can be observed, including:

  • A front design resembling a more modern hammerhead shark, complete with full-width LED lights.
  • No traditional grille structure.
  • The presence of ventilation ducts on the engine hood.
  • A simpler rear design featuring full-width LED pixel lights, a ducktail spoiler, and the word “Corolla” in the center.
  • A charging port cover on the front fender.

The use of conventional side mirror designs and door handles strongly suggests that this sedan has specifications more similar to those of an actual production version.

Did you notice the charging port cover we mentioned earlier?

This provides another hint indicating that the Corolla is likely to be offered as an electric sedan, or possibly as a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), similar to the Prius.

More details will be revealed in the lead-up to the Japan Mobility Show 2025, which will kick off on October 29.

EV, NEWS

iCaur Malaysia opens flagship dealership in Damansara

iCAUR Malaysia today announced the grand opening of iCAUR Damansara, the marque’s flagship dealership in Malaysia. Owned and operated by Carramax Luxe Sdn. Bhd., iCAUR Damansara underscores the brand’s commitment to delivering an exciting, customer-centric EV ownership experience.

Covering approximately 40,000 square feet, iCAUR Damansara combines excellent connectivity to Greater Kuala Lumpur, exceptional customer experience, convenience, and comprehensive care for all iCAUR owners and their prized vehicles.

The flagship facility features a spacious showroom with display space for up to eight vehicles, a dedicated delivery bay, and five EV charging bays reserved for customers.

The customer lounge provides a fun and relaxing environment with two Nintendo consoles, complimentary Wi-Fi, coffee, soft drinks, and light snacks, making every visit a comfortable and engaging experience.

iCAUR Damansara’s after-sales centre is supported by eight fully equipped service bays and a complete Body and Paint (B&P) section, featuring aluminium body repair equipment and comprehensive tooling. The facility also provides accessories installation, vehicle wrapping, and Paint Protection Film (PPF) services, ensuring a complete care solution for every customer.

With a dedicated team of 12 sales consultants, 11 service technicians, and 10 Body and Paint specialists, the centre is capable of servicing up to 520 vehicles per month, reflecting iCAUR Malaysia’s ongoing commitment to quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

iCAUR Damansara is strategically located at Lot 2814, Jalan Damansara, Kampung Sungai Penchala, 60000 Kuala Lumpur. The showroom operates from 9.00 AM to 6.00 PM (Monday–Saturday) and 10.00 AM to 5.00 PM (Sundays and Public Holidays). Meanwhile, the service centre is open from 8.15 AM to 5.15 PM, Monday–Saturday and closed on Sundays and Public Holidays.

NEWS

Perodua introduce digital lifestyle offerings through new platform – P-Circle

Perodua today is moving closer towards incorporating Mobility as a Service (MaaS) under its super App: P-Circle.

“The P-Circle offers mobility as a lifestyle as all these offerings covers a significant portion of our online services engagement under one super app,” Perodua President and Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad said.

“This diversification into tech-based business is in line with our future direction and the auto industry’s future in terms of convergence with consumer preference towards connecting their vehicles, and even homes with the Internet,” Dato’ Sri Zainal said.

“We foresee that this convergence to only grow stronger in the years to come, and we want to prove that we can innovate by providing all the services our customers’ needs before they ask for them – which is in line with our “We Go Beyond” philosophy,” he explained.

“A key component in MaaS is to offer drivers flexible solutions based on their travel needs and the package that we are offering fits right into that description,” he said.

One of the key components of the P Circle is the is the P Duit, an e-wallet, which makes payments easier for nearly all transactions in Malaysia.

“This feature will be useful for those looking to own our first EV (electric vehicle) as we have made an agreement with all charging point operators to agree to accept payments from our e-wallet,” Dato’ Sri Zainal said.

He added that “P Vehicle” will only made available after Perodua’s EV launch.

Dato’ Sri Zainal said that the P Guardian is a surveillance app offered together with P Charge where you can monitor the condition of your home from the camera attached to the P Charge.

The P-Circle app can be downloaded from the Apple App Store and Google Play App. The mobile charge and smartwatch can be purchased at any Perodua Sales and Service outlet nationwide.

NEWS

Kawasaki Malaysia launches 10th All Star 4S Centre in Nilai

Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional Sdn Bhd (MODENAS), Malaysia’s national motorcycle manufacturer and a member of the DRB-HICOM Group, together with Sendayan Motor Sdn Bhd, today celebrated the official opening of Kawasaki Nilai, the 10th Kawasaki All Star 4S (Sales, Spare Parts, Showroom, Services) Centre in Malaysia.

The Nilai outlet marks a key milestone in Kawasaki’s growing nationwide network, delivering world-class motorcycles, after-sales care, and premium rider experiences to Negeri Sembilan and beyond.

“Nilai is our 10th Kawasaki All Star outlet. This is a significant milestone that reflects both our growth and commitment to riders in Malaysia,” said En. Roslan Roskan, Chief Executive Officer of MODENAS.

Roslan added that every Kawasaki All Star outlet is designed as a hub where customers can enjoy a complete 4S experience — from purchasing motorcycles, to professional servicing, to sourcing genuine spare parts, all within a premium showroom environment.

He also emphasized that this latest showroom will contribute towards local job creation and boost Negeri Sembilan’s motorcycle
culture.

“Kawasaki is not only about machines — it is about freedom, passion, and community,” said Mr. Hitoshi Inoue, Chief Marketing Officer of MODENAS.

He noted that Nilai will serve as more than just a dealership, but as a gathering point for bikers and enthusiasts to share experiences, discover new models, and strengthen Malaysia’s riding culture.

Kawasaki Nilai is operated by Sendayan Motor Sdn. Bhd, a family-run business with nearly 50 years of heritage in Negeri Sembilan. Today, the company operates five outlets, reaffirming its position as a trusted name for motorcycle enthusiasts in the
region.

Mr. David Goh Lim Jia, Director of Kawasaki Nilai, said: “From Sendayan Motor’s beginnings in 1976 to us becoming the 10th All Star outlet,
our commitment has always been to serve riders with passion and trust.”

David added that Kawasaki Nilai is not only a retail facility but also a community space where riders can experience innovation, performance, and customer care under one roof.

The opening was officiated by YB Arulkumar A/L Jambunanthan, State Assemblyman of Nilai. The opening ceremony also included a lion dance performance, plaque signing, showroom tours, and a luncheon for over 500 guests.

A special Lucky Draw added excitement with prizes including a MODENAS MR3 motorcycle, LS2 helmets, jackets, and exclusive Kawasaki merchandise.

Looking ahead, MODENAS and Kawasaki plan to further expand the All Star network with upcoming outlets already in the pipeline. The brands are also preparing for the next chapter in mobility with a focus on sustainable solutions and premium lifestyle experiences that will redefine riding for the next generation.

NEWS

KOVE 450 Rally reintroduced in Malaysia – priced from RM39,900

Mdua Motor Sdn Bhd, the official distributor of KOVE Moto motorcycles in Malaysia, has reintroduced the 450 Rally model for the Malaysian market.

Previously introduced, the KOVE 450 Rally is powered by a liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine with a displacement of 449 cc, paired with a six-speed transmission.

It delivers 51.7 hp at 9,500 rpm and a torque of 40 Nm at 7,000 rpm.

The suspension features adjustable 49 mm YU-AN inverted forks at the front, complemented by a YU-AN piggyback shock absorber at the rear.

The braking system uses a dual-piston caliper and 290 mm rotor at the front, assisted by a single-piston caliper and 240 mm rotor at the rear.

Included features consist of LED lighting units, a TFT display screen, a high-performance exhaust system, and a USB charging port.

The overall weight of the bike is only 145 kg, with a fuel tank capacity of 30 liters and a seat height of 910 mm.

The retail price in Malaysia starts from RM39,900 on-the-road, excluding insurance, road tax, and registration.

NEWS

This is the last Volvo V90: the end of an era for the Swedish brand’s wagons

The era of large wagons from Volvo has officially come to an end with the last production unit of the Volvo V90 rolling off the assembly line at the Torslanda factory in Sweden.

The final black unit of the Volvo V90 is now part of the Volvo Heritage Collection, which will be displayed at the World of Volvo alongside earlier wagon models.

This luxury mid-size wagon was officially introduced in 2016, about two months after the launch of the S90 sedan.

In addition to the standard version, there was also a Cross Country variant with higher ground clearance and a more rugged appearance.

Volvo V60

With the V90 model discontinued, the Swedish brand, known for its iconic wagon designs, now only has one wagon in its portfolio—the Volvo V60.

Like the V90, the V60’s fate will not last long.

This is because Volvo CEO Jim Rowan told Autocar that while the V60 is still being produced, it will not be renewed after its life cycle ends.

Rowan also suggested repositioning the XC60 with variants like a Black Edition or Cross Country to attract wagon buyers.

The withdrawal of the Volvo V90 from the market clearly brings good news for competing models such as the Audi A6 Avant, BMW 5 Series Touring, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate, which remain available in the European market.

However, for Volvo wagon enthusiasts, this latest development is undoubtedly another piece of bittersweet news to swallow.

There’s no need to blame Volvo for this, considering that the world is leaning more towards crossover and SUV models.

If the wagon models had continued to demonstrate strong sales, the iconic name V90 surely would not have been etched on a gravestone so soon.

NEWS

Proton Shah Alam Plant officially closed, operations moved to Tanjong Malim

After nearly four decades, Proton has officially closed its vehicle assembly plant in Shah Alam, marking the end of a glorious era in the history of the nation’s automotive industry.

The last unit of the Proton Saga was reported to roll off the production line on September 30, 2025.

Manufacturing operations have now been fully relocated to Tanjong Malim, where a total of 1,400 production staff have already moved.

A special celebration event was recently held at Proton Tanjong Malim to honor the 1,400 workers and was officiated by Ainol Azmil, Acting Deputy Chief Executive Officer, along with the senior management team of PROTON.

According to Ainol Azmil, “Today is a historic moment for PROTON as 1,400 colleagues from Shah Alam embark on a new journey in Tanjong Malim.

“With their experience and dedication, PROTON is now ready to step into the next phase, establishing this plant as the main hub for the new generation of PROTON vehicles,” he added.

Production of the Saga model will continue in Tanjong Malim along with the Persona model, the X series SUVs, and the S70 sedan at the high-tech manufacturing hub AHTV, which also houses Proton’s new energy vehicle (NEV) assembly plant.

The Tanjong Malim facility has an annual production capacity of 250,000 units and consists of five main production divisions: Engine and Transmission Machining, Pressing, Body Assembly, Painting, and Final Assembly.

The Proton Shah Alam plant has been in operation since 1985, covering an area of approximately 83.48 hectares with an investment of RM370 million.

In addition to housing a research and development (R&D) center, it is also equipped with comprehensive testing facilities, including a semi-high-speed test track.

Throughout its operational period, the plant has produced over 4 million units of vehicles, including the iconic models Saga, Wira, Perdana, and Exora.

NEWS

Hyundai Malaysia opens booking for Staria CKD, starting from RM179,888

Hyundai Motor Malaysia has announced the opening of bookings for the locally assembled (CKD) Hyundai Staria model.

The MPV, which will be assembled at the Kulim factory in Kedah, will be sold at a price starting from RM179,888 to RM267,888.

Several new color options are available, including Jet Black, Snow Flake White Pearl, Meteor Grey, and Stormy Sea, across all variants.

In Malaysia, the Staria can be configured with either 10 seats or up to 7 seats for the premium variant.

In terms of power, the Staria is equipped with a 2.2-liter turbo diesel engine that produces 177 PS and 430 Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Further details about the Hyundai Staria can be read through this link [HERE].