All posts by Hanif Su'ib

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

Indonesia and KG Mobility partner to develop national car and bus project

It seems that Southeast Asian countries are racing to showcase their respective national car projects.

After Thailand, it is now Indonesia’s turn to announce its own national car and bus project, which will be supported by KG Mobility (KGM).

For your information, KGM is an automotive brand from South Korea, previously known as SsangYong.

KGM recently signed an agreement for the expansion of business and local assembly supply of the Rexton model at the headquarters of Pindad, a defense company under the Indonesian Ministry of Defense, on May 8th.

According to a report by Business Korea, KGM will examine several aspects such as competitiveness, technology, and engineering for models like the Rexton.

From this foundation, KGM plans to actively collaborate to further expand the scale of Indonesia’s national car and electric bus production project, led by Pindad, with a target of 200,000 units.

This is not the first time Indonesia has embarked on a national car project.

In 1996, a company known as PT Timor Putra Nasional (Timor) was established in response to the then-President of Indonesia’s desire to realize a national automotive industry.

During its operational years, Timor produced two vehicle models: the S515 sedan (rebadged from the Kia Sephia) and the S516i wagon.

EV, NEWS

Thailand to launch national EV brand in collaboration with Chery

This is an exciting development coming from neighboring Thailand.

According to the latest report by Autolife Thailand, the country will have its own national EV brand by the end of 2025.

The Thai national car project is the result of collaboration between the Ministry of Commerce, the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), King Gen, and the Chinese automotive company Chery.

Initially, three models are planned to be introduced by the end of this year, consisting of a pickup truck, an MPV, and an SUV.

It is understood that all three models will have over 50% local content.

As a “Thai car,” this national EV project will receive specific tax incentives to enable it to be sold at a more affordable price for consumers there.

This development aligns with what Chery announced at Auto Shanghai 2025 recently.

The Chinese automotive manufacturer announced the development of the M-Series vehicles, which will include a seven-seat SUV, an MPV, and a pickup truck supporting internal combustion engines (ICE), EVs, and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs).

This approach is seen as comparable to Toyota’s IMV project planned for the global and Southeast Asian markets, which includes the Innova, Fortuner, and Hilux models.

NEWS

Suzuki S-Presso now features a Jimny-inspired body kit

At first glance, the front design resembles that of the Suzuki Jimny, but don’t be fooled by this well-executed work.

This model, which looks like a Jimny, is actually the Suzuki S-Presso, a segment A crossover produced by Maruti Suzuki for markets such as Africa, Southeast Asia, India, and the Middle East.

The body kit, inspired by the off-road SUV Jimny, has been designed by the Indonesian company GH Style.

The most notable changes are at the front, where it features a new structure complete with round headlights, a rectangular grille, and a redesigned bumper that houses the fog lamp housings.

Additionally, the S-Presso is equipped with wider fender flares, followed by a rear spoiler and a redesigned rear bumper.

Lastly, all four corners of the wheel arches are adorned with new white rims.

In terms of power, the Suzuki S-Presso is equipped with a 998 cc three-cylinder inline engine that produces 67 hp and 90 Nm of torque.

While this may seem underpowered, it is more than sufficient to make the 730 kg S-Presso agile on urban roads.

EV, NEWS

Mazda EZ-6 Sports Edition aimed at young buyers

At 2025 Auto Shanghai recently, Mazda took the opportunity to launch the EZ-6 sedan in a sportier variant.

Developed through a collaboration between Mazda teams in Japan, China, and Europe, the Mazda EZ-6 Sports Edition is targeted at a younger demographic of buyers.

Distinguishing it from the standard EZ-6 model are the glossy black 19-inch alloy wheels and red brake calipers.

Stepping inside the cabin, the EZ-6 features black Alcantara upholstery, contrasting red stitching, and dark trim elements on the center console and air conditioning vents.

There are no changes to the equipment, meaning the cabin of the EZ-6 Sports Edition still retains a 14.6-inch infotainment screen, a 50-inch head-up display, and a Sony audio system with 14 speakers.

For your information, the Mazda EZ-6 is a D-segment sedan developed by Mazda in collaboration with Changan Automobile using the Deepal L07 platform.

In China, the Mazda EZ-6 is available in a BEV version with a 255 hp electric motor and a range between 480 km to 600 km, depending on battery capacity.

There is also a range-extended variant (EREV) that combines a 1.5-liter engine with a 215 hp rear axle electric motor, offering a range of up to 1,301 km with a fuel consumption rate of 3.6 liters/100 km.

NEWS

Eurorepar enters Malaysia as a multi-brand aftermarket spare parts supplier

Stellantis has recently announced the arrival of its aftermarket spare parts supplier brand, Eurorepar, in the Malaysian market.

Established in 2002, Eurorepar offers over 17,000 automotive products including spare parts, accessories, tires, engine oil, and consumables at competitive prices.

In addition, there will also be Eurorepar Car Service, which will be positioned as a multi-brand service network for vehicles under the Stellantis brand as well as other brands.

With a network of 6,500 service centers across more than 30 countries, Eurorepar aims to provide a value-driven, quality approach to the Malaysian market.

This enables independent service centers to showcase professional-grade services while simultaneously offering more reasonable costs backed by genuine OEM spare parts.

According to Isaac Yeo, Managing Director of Stellantis ASEAN, “The introduction of Eurorepar and the Eurorepar Car Service network in Malaysia represents an important development in expanding Stellantis’s global after-sales footprint, while providing a comprehensive one-stop solution for quality spare parts and professional services.”

He further explained that the Regional Spare Parts Hub located in the Port Klang Free Zone will serve as the backbone for Eurorepar, ensuring sufficient stock supply and timely delivery for partners, distributors, and customers.

“With over 60 product families in the company’s portfolio, Eurorepar will offer a wide range of affordable spare parts to all customers in Malaysia.

“Many customers are looking for a balance between professional service at affordable prices.

“We are confident that our offering of professional-grade OEM services and spare parts at cost-saving rates can meet the unique demands that Eurorepar intends to fulfill.”

Eurorepar is also expected to announce partnerships with distributors this year, following a positive local response.

Each Eurorepar spare part will come with a standard two-year warranty to ensure operational efficiency while offering peace of mind to service agents and customers.

NEWS

CFMoto 250NK Lite officially launched – priced at RM9,888

Looking for a more powerful daily ride at an affordable price?

Welcome the CFLite, the latest sub-brand from CFMoto, designed specifically to offer small-displacement motorcycles at competitive prices.

CFMoto aims to target this CFLite sub-brand to new markets such as Southeast Asia and Latin America.

Coinciding with the launch of the SYM ADXTG 400 scooter and the QJMotor AX200S, MForce Bike Holdings has introduced the latest model, the CFMoto 250NK Lite, priced at RM9,888 on the road, excluding insurance.

This naked bike is powered by a liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine with a displacement of 249 cc, generating 27.4 hp at 9,750 rpm and 22 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm.

The suspension consists of 37 mm telescopic forks in the front and a single shock absorber at the rear.

The braking system features a 292 mm rotor with a twin-piston caliper at the front and a 220 mm rotor with a single-piston caliper at the rear, assisted by a two-channel ABS function.

The 17-inch rims are fitted with tires sized 110/70 R17 in the front and 140/60 R17 in the rear.

This motorcycle also comes equipped with an LCD display screen, full LED lighting, and USB Type-A and Type C charging ports.

The fuel tank capacity is 12.3 liters, while the seat height measures 795 mm.

There are four color options available: Zephyr Blue, Bordeaux Red, Nebula Black, and Nebula White.

 

NEWS

SYM ADXTG 400 officially launched in Malaysia – priced at RM29,888

Another scooter has been launched by MForce Bike Holdings: the adventure scooter SYM ADXTG 400 2025.

According to SYM, the aggressive appearance and design of this scooter is heavily inspired by prehistoric tigers, particularly evident in the sharp front and rear lights.

The ADXTG 400 is powered by a liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine of 399 cc, delivering 35 hp at 7,000 rpm and a torque of 37 Nm at 5,500 rpm.

The Hyper-VVS technology contributes to a more economical fuel consumption level while providing exhilarating performance.

A unique feature of the ADXTG 400 scooter is the use of dual balancing shafts to reduce vibration, an inverted front fork, and a multi-link setup for the rear wheel.

Additionally, the rear wheel is driven by a chain system, rather than a belt like most scooters on the market.

It offers an off-road riding mode, an ABS braking system, and traction control to ensure safety on the road.

Other available features include a smart key system, a color LCD display, fast USB 3.0 charging, a 32-liter under-seat storage compartment, an adjustable manual windscreen, a seat height of 790 mm, and complete handlebar and engine protection.

MForce has announced that the SYM ADXTG 400 2025 will be priced at RM29,888 on the road, excluding insurance.

 

NEWS

QJMotor AX200S now available in Malaysia – priced at RM7,988

MForce Bike Holdings has officially launched another affordable scooter, the QJMotor AX200S, for the local market.

This scooter is powered by a 175 cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine that can produce 17.4 hp @ 8,500 rpm and a torque of 15.2 Nm @ 6,500 rpm.

The power is transmitted to the rear wheel through an automatic CVT transmission and final belt drive.

The suspension system consists of telescopic forks in the front, followed by twin shock absorbers at the rear.

The braking system features a 230 mm rotor at the front and a 220 mm rotor at the rear, supported by an ABS system and traction control.

In addition to that, the QJMotor AX200S is also equipped with LED lights along with daytime running lights (DRL), a 10-liter fuel tank, a seat height of 780 mm, and an LCD touchscreen display.

The selling price starts from RM7,988 on the road, excluding insurance.

 

EV, NEWS

2026 Toyota bZ Woodland – an electric SUV for outdoor enthusiasts

In addition to the bZ model, Toyota America has launched another electric SUV designed for outdoor enthusiasts, the bZ Woodland.

The Toyota bZ Woodland fundamentally shares the same platform as the previously introduced Subaru Trailseeker.

Compared to the standard bZ model, the bZ Woodland features larger dimensions, measuring 4,830 mm in length (+140 mm), 1,860 mm in width, 1,670 mm in height (+20 mm), and a wheelbase of 2,850 mm.

These dimensional changes contribute to a larger cargo space, around 850 liters.

Additionally, the ground clearance has increased by 2.54 mm to 210 mm, thanks to the use of higher suspension.

This mid-size SUV can tow a weight of 1,588 kg and can be equipped with All-Terrain tires.

Toyota has also streamlined the offerings for the bZ Woodland, which is only available in a dual electric motor configuration producing 375 hp.

Acceleration performance has not been disclosed; however, it is noted that the Subaru Trailseeker can accelerate from 0 to 96 km/h in just 4.4 seconds.

The all-wheel-drive (AWD) system is complemented by a driving mode selection known as X-Mode and a Grip-Control feature for enhanced off-road performance.

The 74.7 kWh battery pack allows this SUV to be driven up to 418 km and supports NACS plug charging for compatibility with the Tesla Supercharger network.

Fast DC charging takes only 30 minutes to go from 10 to 80 percent state of charge (SoC).

The exterior appearance of the bZ Woodland resembles that of the standard bZ model, except for the addition of black body cladding, 18-inch aluminum wheels with removable covers, and roof rails.

The rear features a more minimalist light housing, followed by a Woodland badge on the tailgate.

Inside, the bZ Woodland cabin includes a 14-inch central screen, a wireless smartphone charging slot, USB Type-C charging ports, and SofTex-wrapped seating with heating functions for the front row.

There is also a Premium package that adds a JBL audio system, a panoramic glass roof, a digital rearview mirror, and front seat ventilation.

Lastly, the Toyota Safety Sense features a suite of safety functions, including a Pre-Collision System (PCS), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Road Sign Assist (RSA), Automatic High Beams (AHB), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Safe Exit Alert (SEA), Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA), and a Surround View Camera system.

EV, NEWS

2026 Toyota bZ – simpler name with extended range

Toyota’s electric SUV is now presented with a new, simpler name that rolls off the tongue more easily: the Toyota bZ.

For the 2026 model year, several enhancements have been made, particularly in terms of driving range to alleviate range anxiety among owners.

There are two battery pack options available: 57.7 kWh and 74.7 kWh.

The base front-wheel drive (FWD) version with 168 hp and a 57.7 kWh battery can now travel up to 380 km (EPA data).

There is also a more powerful FWD variant (221 hp) which has an impressive range of up to 505 km when paired with the 74.7 kWh battery pack.

Toyota also offers an all-wheel drive (AWD) version with 338 hp, capable of covering up to 463 km on a full charge.

Notably, the 2026 Toyota bZ is now equipped with a North American Charging Standard (NACS) plug, allowing owners to charge their vehicles at Tesla Supercharger stations at a capacity of up to 150 kW.

Unlike the bZ4X model, the bZ now features a more streamlined front fascia similar to that of the Camry and Prius.

The previously black-painted wheel arch protective plastics have now been color-matched to the body of the vehicle.

Upon entering the cabin, one will find a redesigned center console that includes a slot for wireless smartphone charging and a 14.0-inch infotainment screen.

Additional features include SofTex upholstery, a six-speaker audio system with an option for a JBL Premium nine-speaker audio system, and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 safety features.

 

 

EV, NEWS

2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross set to debut as an EV

To strengthen its presence in the European market, Mitsubishi will rely on models produced by Renault for badge engineering.

Most recently, Mitsubishi is set to launch an all-electric SUV, the Eclipse Cross EV, based on the Renault Scenic E-Tech platform.

Previously, Mitsubishi has introduced several models based on Renault, including the Colt (Clio), ASX (Captur), and Grandis (Symbioz).

Based on a teaser video that was uploaded, several features can be identified, such as aerodynamic wheel design, front grille pattern, hidden door handles, and the Eclipse Cross and EV badges.

To differentiate it from the donor model from Renault, Mitsubishi will also apply its Dynamic Shield design language to the new model.

This C-segment SUV is expected to retain the specifications found in the Scenic E-Tech, with either a single electric motor delivering 168 hp or a dual-motor version producing 215 hp, along with battery pack options of 60 kWh and 87 kWh.

Additionally, the Eclipse Cross EV will feature a five-seat configuration, with a cargo space of 545 liters, a Google-based infotainment system, and various ADAS safety features.

NEWS

Proton Xchange Programme offers RM2,000 incentive for trading in old cars for new models

Proton today launched the Proton Xchange programme, encouraging owners of old vehicles to trade them in for new Proton models, regardless of their brand.

This initiative aligns with the government’s efforts to enhance road safety and promote greener mobility.

With a budget of RM4.8 million, Proton will collaborate with Car Medic Sdn Bhd, an approved automotive treatment facility (AATF), to devise a comprehensive solution that offers incentives to participants while ensuring the safe disposal of old vehicles.

For each old vehicle disposed of, owners will receive an incentive valued at RM2,000, which can be used towards the purchase of any new Proton model, including the Proton e.MAS 7 EV.

The requirements to participate in the Proton Xchange programme are as follows:

  • Open to all types of vehicles, including sedans, MPVs, vans, 4x4s, trucks, and buses
  • The vehicle must be at least 15 years old and in a condition that is no longer safe for use
  • Must include a Vehicle Ownership Certificate (VOC) and form JPJK1KD
  • Owners must also obtain a Certificate of Destruction (COD) from Car Medic

The Proton Xchange programme will run until the end of this year, with only 2,400 slots available.

Speaking at the event, Malaysia’s Minister of Transport, YB Anthony Loke Siew Fook, stated, “The Ministry of Transport supports the Xchange program initiative and encourages more original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to follow PROTON’s lead by looking beyond just sales targets and profits.”

“As the first automotive company in the country, PROTON is once again becoming a change agent in the automotive industry and setting a good example. No other automotive brand has a program with the same depth and scope, and this will significantly reduce their carbon footprint,” he explained.

Proton’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Li Chunrong, said, “The PROTON Xchange programme marks an important step towards safer and greener automotive practices in Malaysia, showcasing PROTON’s commitment to its customers and the nation.

“We also hope this initiative encourages the replacement of old vehicles with new cars equipped with modern safety features, thereby reducing road risks.”

During his speech, Anthony Loke also announced a surprise: every new Proton vehicle registered through this programme will get one year free road tax.

EV, NEWS

2025 Honda e:N1 officially launched in Malaysia – 500 km range, priced from RM149,900

Honda Malaysia’s first electric vehicle (EV), the Honda e:N1, has officially been launched.

Although it shares a similar appearance to the Honda HR-V, the e:N1 does not share the same platform.

Instead, the e:N1 is built on the e:N Architecture F platform and features a front-wheel drive electric motor that produces 201 hp and 310 Nm of torque.

It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.7 seconds, reaching a top speed of 160 km/h.

Equipped with a 68.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, this electric SUV can travel up to 500 km on a single full charge (NEDC data).

This EV supports AC charging at 10 kW (full charging time of six hours) and DC charging up to 78 kW, allowing the battery to be charged from 10% to 80% in just 45 minutes.

In terms of dimensions, the Honda e:N1 measures 4,380 mm in length, 1,790 mm in width, 1,592 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,610 mm and a ground clearance of 142 mm.

Standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, sequential LED turn signals, clear rear light housings with a smoky effect, a rear spoiler, and a shark fin antenna.

Inside the cabin, the e:N1 is equipped with leather-wrapped seats, a 10.25-inch digital cluster screen, a 15.1-inch vertical central screen, and wireless support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The center console features PRND buttons, cup holders, a driving mode selection button, and an electronic parking brake.

The Honda Sensing safety suite includes features such as Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Lead Car Departure Notification (LCDN), and Automatic High Beam (AHB).

Additionally, there is also a Blind Spot Information (BSI) system and a Cross-Traffic Monitoring (CTM) system.

There are three color options available: Aqua Topaz Metallic with a gray interior theme, and Urban Gray Pearl and Platinum White Pearl with a black interior theme.

For the local market, the Honda e:N1 is priced at RM149,900 on-the-road, excluding insurance.

 

EV, NEWS

BYD’s ultra-compact EV spied undergoing testing, aiming for Japan’s kei car market

CarNewsChina reports that BYD is currently developing a prototype of a mini-sized electric vehicle with one goal: to capture Japan’s kei car market.

Although still covered in camouflage stickers, the car showcases features such as sliding rear doors, twin A-pillars, and a relatively high window glass housing structure.

This demonstrates BYD’s seriousness in creating a product that complies with the dimensional regulations set for the kei car segment in Japan.

For your information, the kei car segment is a category of ultra-compact cars in Japan, with a maximum length of 3.4 meters, a width of 1.48 meters, and a height of 2 meters.

Furthermore, engine power is limited to a maximum of 64 hp according to the agreement of the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA).

Although BYD currently offers the Seagull as its smallest EV, its size is still too large to be categorized as a kei car.

According to reports from China, BYD’s electric ‘kei car’ will be equipped with a 20 kWh battery that offers a range of about 180 km (WLTC data), along with support for fast charging at 100 kW.

BYD plans to produce this electric kei car in China for export to the Japanese market starting in late 2026, with the ambition to capture 40 percent of the electric kei car market within a few years.

Currently, the kei car market in Japan offers two EV models: the Nissan Sakura and its twin, the Mitsubishi eK X EV.

Both models were launched in 2022, equipped with a 64 hp electric motor producing 195 Nm of torque, and a 20 kWh battery pack with a driving range of up to 180 km.

EV, NEWS

Kineta, Charge+ collaborate to expand regional EV charging network

Kineta Sdn Bhd, a provider of electric vehicle charging solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with Southeast Asian charging operator Charge+ in an effort to further expand EV charging infrastructure in the region.

Under this strategic collaboration, Kineta will play a crucial role for Charge+ in expanding the charging network in Malaysia.

In addition, both parties will work together to drive the growth and accessibility of the EV charging ecosystem both domestically and regionally.

According to Sunny Lee, Managing Director of Kineta, “This strategic partnership marks a significant achievement in our mission to accelerate EV adoption in Malaysia, while simultaneously paving the way for a smoother cross-border charging experience.”

“We are not just building infrastructure; we want to make electric vehicle ownership simpler and more accessible for everyone,” he explained.

Kineta boasts a team of certified engineers recognized by the Energy Commission (EC), among the largest in Malaysia.

With over 9,000 chargers sold and more than 6,000 installations in large-scale retail and commercial areas, Kineta also has its own team that includes customer service, after-sales support, technical assistance, research, and warranty services.

Charge+, established in Singapore in 2018, now operates a charging network with over 3,000 locations across six countries, including Cambodia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand.

With a mission to accelerate the transition to more sustainable mobility, Charge+ aims to provide up to 30,000 charging points by 2030.

Goh Chee Kiong, Chief Executive Officer of Charge+, stated, “Through this strategic cooperation, Charge+ and Kineta are committed to providing a seamless and reliable charging experience, while also alleviating range anxiety among EV drivers in Malaysia and the region.”

“This collaboration also facilitates Charge+’s mission to build a DC charging network spanning 5,000 km along highways across Southeast Asia,” he explained.

EV, NEWS

Isuzu D-Max EV offers 361 km range, 190 hp/325 Nm and 4WD system

Isuzu Motors Limited has recently announced that production of the electric pickup model, the D-Max EV, has officially begun at its factory in Thailand.

The zero-emission pickup was first showcased at the Bangkok Motor Show 2024.

According to specifications, the D-Max EV is equipped with two electric motors and an all-wheel-drive system, with the front motor producing 58 hp and 108 Nm, while the rear motor produces 132 hp and 217 Nm.

The total power output reaches 190 hp and 325 Nm, allowing for acceleration from 0 to 97 km/h in just 10.1 seconds, with a maximum speed of 130 km/h.

The D-Max EV’s capabilities are on par with the diesel version of the D-Max, boasting a payload capacity of 1,010 kg and a towing capacity of 3,500 kg.

The 66.9 kWh lithium-ion battery pack enables the vehicle to travel up to 361 km for city driving (WLTP data).

The D-Max EV also supports 11 kW AC charging (0-100 percent in 10 hours) and 50 kW DC fast charging, where the battery can be charged from 20 to 80 percent in one hour.

In terms of dimensions, the D-Max EV measures 5,280 mm in length, 1,870 mm in width, and 1,810 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,125 mm. The vehicle weighs approximately 2,350 kg.

Additionally, the D-Max EV features a ground clearance of 210 mm, the capability to wade through 600 mm of water, and approach and departure angles of 30.5 degrees and 24.2 degrees, respectively.

Unlike the standard D-Max, which uses leaf spring suspension in the rear, the handling of the D-Max EV is enhanced by the use of De-Dion suspension.

According to Isuzu, the left-hand drive (LHD) version of the D-Max EV will be distributed to major European markets in the third quarter (Q3) of this year.

The right-hand drive (RHD) version is set to begin production at the end of this year and is expected to be sold in the UK market in 2026, before being expanded to other markets.

NEWS

2026 Toyota Corolla Cross GR Sport launched for the European market

Toyota has introduced a facelifted version of the Corolla Cross in several Southeast Asian markets since last year.

However, for the European market, the SUV now comes with a much bolder appearance, especially for the GR Sport variant, which is being launched in the continent for the first time.

Starting with the standard version, this facelifted Corolla Cross features a redesigned bumper accompanied by a honeycomb grille structure.

Unlike models for other markets, the 2026 Corolla Cross is equipped with sharper graphic LED headlights, followed by the introduction of a horizontal LED light bar.

The taillights also feature new graphic designs, while all four wheel arches are adorned with new 18-inch rims.

Inside the cabin, there is a 10.5-inch central screen, a 12.3-inch digital cluster screen, a larger center console featuring a new gear knob, and a faster wireless smartphone charger.

Additionally, Apple CarPlay support is also available.

Toyota promises a quieter ride, thanks to improvements made in sound insulation to reduce noise and vibrations.

The highest variant will come with ambient lighting, as well as heated seats and a heated steering wheel.

As mentioned, this is the first time Toyota has introduced the GR Sport variant for the Corolla Cross in Europe.

This bolder appearance is largely inspired by the bumpers of the GR Yaris and the facelifted GR Corolla.

In addition, the Corolla Cross GR Sport is also equipped with sportier 19-inch rims, a suspension that is 10 mm lower, as well as recalibrated power steering and the addition of paddle shifters as standard features.

Toyota adds a Sport Mode feature for quicker acceleration, along with a Snow Extra mode for improved control and stability during winter.

In Europe, the Corolla Cross will be available in Hybrid 140 or Hybrid 200 specifications.

The base Hybrid 140 features a 1.8-liter hybrid engine capable of producing 138 hp, while the Hybrid 200 variant comes with a 2.0-liter hybrid engine with a power output of up to 194 hp.

 

2026 Toyota Corolla Cross 

2026 Toyota Corolla Cross GR Sport

EV, NEWS

Volvo EX90 named 2024 World Luxury Car of The Year

The full-size electric SUV, the Volvo EX90, has been crowned the winner of the World Luxury Car of the Year 2024 award.

This prestigious recognition was announced at the New York International Auto Show by a panel of judges comprising 96 prominent automotive journalists from 30 countries.

The Volvo EX90 has been praised for its sophisticated Scandinavian luxury, dynamic electric performance, and world-class safety innovations.

Officially launched in April, the Volvo EX90 is available in a single Ultra Twin variant, featuring twin electric motors that produce 517 horsepower and 910 Nm of torque.

Its 111 kWh NMC battery pack offers a driving range of up to 623 km on a full charge.

As the most advanced SUV, the Volvo EX90 is described as a mobile computer, equipped with an NVIDIA DRIVE AI processing unit that manages every aspect of the vehicle, from infotainment and advanced driver assistance to safety features.

In addition to passenger detection functions, the Volvo EX90 includes a driver understanding feature, which monitors real-time data and provides alerts or safely stops the vehicle in the event of an emergency.

The Volvo EX90 is also equipped with a comprehensive array of sensors, including radar, cameras, ultrasonic sensors, and a LIDAR unit designed to support higher levels of autonomy in driving in the future.

In the Malaysian market, the Volvo EX90 is priced at RM442,888, complete with an unlimited mileage vehicle warranty, 24-hour roadside assistance, and five years of free digital services.

The first 50 customers will receive a wall charger voucher and a foldable panoramic sunshade worth RM5,000 for free.

NEWS

Jaecoo Malaysia offers special benefits for professionals

Jaecoo Malaysia has announced a Professional Affiliates Program (PAP) specifically designed for professionals and employees of registered companies in Malaysia.

Through the PAP, benefits in the form of discounts are offered on Jaecoo’s model lineup, including the J7 2WD, J7 AWD, and J7 PHEV.

According to Jaecoo Malaysia’s Vice President Emily Lek, the PAP was introduced in response to positive feedback and demand from corporate and professional sectors.

“This is a step forward in our efforts to elevate the brand and connect more closely with our fans and customers,” she said.

In addition to professionals, the PAP is also open to all individuals who are members of associations, financial and insurance services, corporate organizations, and recognized content creators serving as Jaecoo brand ambassadors.

The benefits of this program can also be shared with eligible close family members.

For more information, please visit www.jaecoo.com.my or Jaecoo Malaysia’s social media platforms.

NEWS

AMI now the official distributor of Indian Motorcycle brand in Malaysia

AFY Mobility Industries (AMI) has announced the relaunch of the premium motorcycle brand Indian Motorcycle for the local market.

The distribution of Indian Motorcycle models will be managed by AMI’s subsidiary, Spirit Lake Sdn Bhd.

In conjunction with this, AMI has also announced the opening of a showroom located on Jalan PJ222 in Petaling Jaya.

You are invited to visit and take a closer look at models such as the Scout ABS Icon, Scout Bobber, and Scout Rouge ABS.

The Indian Motorcycle brand will also make its appearance at the Malaysia Autoshow 2025, which will be held at MAEPS, Serdang, from May 9 to 15.