BAIC (Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co. Ltd.) is the newest Chinese brand to launch in Malaysia. BAIC is China’s state-owned car manufacturer, with the capital city of Beijing as its owner. This is as close as you can get to a Chinese ‘national car.’ Outside of China, BAIC is pronounced as ‘baik,’ but in China, locals refer to it simply as ‘Beijing.’ BAIC is the local partner for Mercedes-Benz and Hyundai in China. We say ‘launch’ in Malaysia in a loose manner, because BAIC’s Foton-badged
May 17, 2024
Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are still relatively new to the market, making it difficult to determine their long-term resale value. However, current trends indicate that BEVs despite being on the market for only around 2 years tend to depreciate more quickly. While this isn't great news for new buyers, it presents an opportunity for those looking to snag a deal. Mercedes-Benz Malaysia recently announced on its social media platforms that a pre-owned EQS can be purchased for as low as RM 339k
May 17, 2024
If you’re looking to get a car for your growing family, why not get one from CARSOME? This month, CARSOME is offering discounts of up to RM 2,500 on SUVs and MPVs currently listed for sale. If you buy a CARSOME Certified MPV/SUV, you will receive RM 1,000 worth of discounts. Trade in your old car for a CARSOME Certified vehicle and you could receive additional rebates of up to RM 1,500! Additionally, CARSOME Value vehicles are also being given discounts of up to RM 1,000 at all CARSOME outlets.
May 17, 2024
If you thought keeping up with the number of Chinese models launching in Malaysia is hard enough, here’s one more to add to your list, and it’s from Vietnam. A Malaysia-registered Vinfast VF e34 has been spotted on the road, according to one photo circulating on WhatsApp groups (original sender unknown). It is common knowledge that Vinfast has plans to launch in Malaysia. Last month, one unit was spotted with temporary trade plates. It appears that the same car has now been registered, based on
May 17, 2024
Honda has announced a comprehensive electrification strategy aimed at transforming its vehicle lineup and achieving significant milestones in the xEV market. In a business briefing with investors today - Director, President, and Global CEO Toshihiro Mibe reaffirmed Honda's commitment to making battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) account for 100 percent of its global vehicle sales by 2040. By 2030, the company plans for these vehicles to constitute 40 percent
May 17, 2024
Three years since it first made its local debut, over 28,700 units of the Honda City Hatchback has been sold in Malaysia, cementing its place as among the best-selling models the company has in its line-up. The City Hatchback was one of Honda Malaysia's top-performers last year, contributing 13% of the company's overall sales. It was bested by the City sedan and HR-V, at 30% and 25% respectively. A natural rival to the Toyota Yaris, the City Hatchback facelift was launched earlier today, made av
May 16, 2024
China’s state-owned Beijing Automotive Group (BAIC) has appointed Propadu Holdings’ subsidiary Edaran Otomobil Elektrik (EOE) as its authorized distributor in Malaysia. BAIC, which is commonly referred to in China simply as ‘Beijing,’ is a local manufacturing partner Hyundai and Mercedes-Benz in China. The brand had its soft launch in Indonesia yesterday. Like Indonesia, the two models earmarked for local launch are the off-road-ready BAIC BJ40 Plus and the family-focused BAIC X55 II. Initial mo
May 16, 2024
The Porsche 911 (992 generation) facelift is set to debut on 28-May. This update, dubbed the ‘992.2,’ introduces a hybrid powertrain to the standard 911 lineup for the first time. Porsche has revealed that the 992-generation 911 facelift achieved a lap time of 7 minutes and 16.934 seconds on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, 8.7 seconds faster than the previous model. The test car used standard road tyres and an optional aero kit. Details are still scarce, but reports highlight a revised turbocharge
May 16, 2024
BYD revealed the Ocean-M concept at the Beijing Autoshow in China, previewing a production model expected to launch in the third quarter of this year. Filings with the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) indicates the hatchback be positioned alongside the Seal in the lineup. Currently referred to as the Seal X, CarNewsChina suggests that the 'X' in the name could be a placeholder as BYD finalises its branding. Design wise, the Ocean-M features a prominent split bumper
May 16, 2024
Earlier today, the 2024 Honda City Hatchback was launched in Malaysia (full report here). It is one of two models the company will introduce to our shores this year, though the other one is still an open-ended question. Honda Malaysia's locally-assembled (CKD) line-up is pretty complete, with all major new models available in the region already on sale here, leaving the hypotheses to rest on two main theories: what's been out in Japan, and Honda's electrification goal as a whole. Honda HR-V face
May 16, 2024
A new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant of the (X254) Mercedes-Benz GLC featuring a BYD FinDreams battery has been uncovered ahead of its market launch in China. The GLC 350eL 4Matic as it's called, will be equipped with a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery from BYD's subsidiary, FinDreams, according to filings disclosed by China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). The GLC 350eL will be produced by Beijing Benz, a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and BAIC Motor, but did no
May 16, 2024
Honda Malaysia is off to a rousing start this year, as the company has recorded sales of 21,500 units in Q1 2024, on track for their total sales goal of 95,000 units for the entirety of this year. This is a whopping 23% increase over Q1 2023, in which the company sold circa 16,500 cars. According to a senior official within the company, Q1 2024's numbers were led by the HR-V, City, and CR-V. To recap, the two SUVs were last year's No.1 in their respective segments' sales figures. Hironobu Yoshim
May 16, 2024
China’s state-owned car manufacturer, Beijing Automotive Group Co. Ltd. (BAIC) will be restarting its entry into Southeast Asia. The brand was launched in Indonesia yesterday, with PT JIO Distribusi Indonesia, a subsidiary of PT JDI, as its distributor. Two models were previewed, the BJ40 Plus (which we have already covered in an earlier post here), and this X55 II. Unlike the off-road-ready ladder frame chassis BJ40 Plus, this BAIC X55 II uses a more family-focused, comfort-oriented monocoque c
May 16, 2024
In a statement at a road safety event organised by the Ministry of Transport (MoT) today, Transport Minister Anthony Loke clarified that the government currently has no plans to mandate the installation of dashcams in all vehicles. While acknowledging proposals for such a mandate, Minister Loke highlighted the challenges of implementing new regulations that would affect all vehicles, particularly older models still in use. "The Ministry of Transport has no plan yet; there are proposals to mandat
May 16, 2024
Three years after it was launched in Malaysia, replacing the Honda Jazz, the Honda City Hatchback (HB) has been given a facelift. Locally assembled (CKD) in Pegoh, Melaka, the City HB facelift is offered in 5 variants: 1.5 S – RM 85,900 1.5 E – RM 90,900 1.5 V – RM 95,900 1.5 RS Petrol – RM 100,900 1.5 RS e:HEV – RM 112,900 Across the board, prices have increased between 3% to 8% depending on the variants. The pre-facelift City HB range was priced from RM 78,900 (1.5 S) to RM 109,900 (1.5 RS e:H
May 16, 2024
In a significant shift in strategy, Mercedes-Benz has decided to halt development of its upcoming MB.EA large BEV platform due to declining sales in the BEV market. This decision comes as the automaker faces increasing competition and pricing pressure from Chinese manufacturers, which has impacted its profitability and market position. Initially reported by the German newspaper Handelsblatt and later confirmed by Automobilwoche, the decision underscores the challenges Mercedes-Benz faces in its
May 16, 2024
Leapmotor International, the export-only joint venture between Stellantis and China’s Hangzhou-based Leapmotor, will begin exports to countries in the Asia Pacific, Middle East, India, and Africa in the fourth quarter of this year. Leapmotor International is 51 percent owned by Stellantis. It’s a separate entity from the China domestic market-only Leapmotor. Two models have been earmarked for exports, C/D-segment (5-seater) Leapmotor C10 and the A-segment T03. In China, the C10 is available eith
May 16, 2024
BYD has launched its first pick-up truck, the Shark, in Mexico. The BYD Shark is available in two variants: the GL priced at PHP 899,980 (approximately RM 251k) and the GS at PHP 969,800 (approximately RM 271k). For context, a Toyota Hilux is priced between 796,300 pesos (approximately RM 222k) and 851,400 pesos (approximately RM238k). Built on a ladder frame chassis with an integrated battery, the Shark uses independent double wishbone suspension at both ends. It offers a bed capacity of 1,450
May 16, 2024
China’s state-owned car manufacturer, Beijing Automotive Group Co. Ltd. (BAIC) has restarted its entry into Southeast Asia. The brand was launched in Indonesia yesterday, with PT JIO Distribusi Indonesia, a subsidiary of PT JDI, as its distributor. Two models have been previewed, the BJ40 Plus and X55. For this post, we will focus on the BJ40 Plus. The name is of course ‘inspired’ by the legendary first generation Toyota Jeep BJ, the original name of the first generation Land Cruiser. The BAIC B
May 15, 2024
Edaran Otomobil Nasional Berhad (EON), a subsidiary of DRB-Hicom Berhad, today inaugurated its revamped Proton EON 3S Centre in Banting, Selangor. The newly upgraded facility, which originally functioned solely as a showroom, now encompasses comprehensive 3S services—sales, after-sales service, and spare parts replacement. The facility upgrade, which involved an investment of RM 6.0 million, has expanded the showroom and incorporated digital sales and after-sales services, providing a more comfo
May 15, 2024
GAC Motor dealer Evo Cartech S.B. has just opened the doors to a new showroom in Cyberjaya, the latest of the brand's growing network in Malaysia. The new 4,434 square-foot facility houses a showroom featuring GAC GS3 Emzoom SUV models, available for public viewing and test drives starting today. The Proton X50-sized GAC GS3 Emzoom locally assembled (CKD, Segambut) starts from RM 118,900. It’s powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 177 PS and 270 Nm. Power is sent to
May 15, 2024
Porsche has announced that Singapore will be home to the 11th Porsche Experience Centre (PEC) worldwide. Strategically located just 20 minutes from Changi Airport and near the upcoming Aviation Park, the new PEC is poised to enhance the vibrancy of the Changi precinct and cater to both local and Southeast Asian car enthusiasts. The state-of-the-art 9-hectare facility next to the Changi Exhibition Centre will house Singapore’s first-ever permanent driving-focused facility will feature a dynamic h
May 15, 2024
Fuel price movements in Malaysia from 16- to 22-May 2024 are as follows: Fuel Price Update 16- to 22-May 2024 RON 95 RM 2.05 RON 97 RM 3.47 RON 100 RM 5.00 Shell V-Power RM 6.00 Diesel EURO 5 B10 RM 2.15 Diesel EURO 5 B7 RM 2.35 Follow fuel price live updates: Petrol Price Malaysia
May 15, 2024
The Jaecoo J6 will be showcased at the upcoming Malaysia Autoshow 2024 in its right-hand drive configuration. Also known as the iCar 03, the J6 is part of Chery’s portfolio under the iCar sub-brand. For export markets, it uses the J6 name. The Jaecoo J6 features black claddings all around, which is typical for a rugged off-roader. From the rear, it does give off the Land Rover Defender vibe. It also includes electric pop-out door handles, side-hinged tailgate, and roof-mounted solar panels. The
May 15, 2024
In conjunction with the launch of the new 2024 Isuzu D-Max facelift model, Isuzu Malaysia announced a sales target of 9,500 units for the year 2024. This figure represents a slight decrease from the 9,650 units sold in 2023, a bumper year that followed a record-breaking 2022 with sales of 9,211 units. Shunsuke Okazoe, CEO of Isuzu Malaysia, commented on the challenges ahead, "This year will be more challenging due to the end of the post-Covid pent-up demand, as well as subsidy rationalisations f
May 15, 2024
Between 2022 to April 2024, the number of fully electric, battery EV (BEV) models on sale in Malaysia have more than doubled, reaching over 40 different models. Last year, eye-catching news headlines were made with silly three-digit percentage growth figures for BEV sales. Data from the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) showed that BEV sales grew by 286% year-on-year in 2023, totaling 10,159 units. The low base effect was at play. When you were selling 5 units, a jump to 10 units is a 100%
May 15, 2024
China’s off-road king, the GWM Tank 300 will be previewed to the public at Malaysia Autoshow 2024 at MAEPS Serdang from 22 to 26 May. The Tank 300 was previously unveiled to the media and went on a nationwide tour at selected locations around Malaysia. The Tank 300 is China’s best-selling off-road SUV, controlling more than 50% of the segment’s market share. Its retro boxy design evokes back to when off-roaders looked macho with a go-anywhere desirability. Indeed, the Tank 300 seems capable of g
May 15, 2024
The Kia Cerato is an appealing alternative to the typical C-segment sedans offered by Honda, Toyota, or Nissan. Its biggest appeal currently? The higher depreciation rate compared to Japanese counterparts. While this can be a drawback for new car buyers, it is excellent news for used car buyers who can find relatively new cars at bargain prices. The Cerato 1.6 and 2.0 were priced at RM 99,888 and RM 118,888 respectively when new. Today, used units that are less than 10 years old can be found for
May 15, 2024
Choosing an appropriate family vehicle is more challenging than you might think. While at the outset it may seem that size matters most, a family car must also be fuel efficient, safe, comfortable on the roads, and reliable. Add criteria like maintenance and running costs, and you begin to understand why it requires a lot of thought and consideration. Depending on your requirements, most of you will most likely have landed on choosing between a Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) or a Sport Utility Vehi
May 15, 2024
The 2024 Isuzu D-Max facelift has been launched. This timely update, approximately three years after its debut in 2021, includes visual and technical enhancements designed to give it a competitive edge in the hotly contested pickup truck segment. The fully imported (CBU, from Thailand) 2024 D-Max is offered in eight variants, with prices as follows: 3.0 4x4 X-Terrain AT - RM 157,938 3.0 4x4 Premium AT - RM 141,138 1.9 4x4 Premium AT - RM 134,649 1.9 4x2 Auto Plus AT - RM 109,499 1.9 4x4 Standard
May 14, 2024