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  Proton eMas 7 PHEV - RM110k-130k estimated

Latest Stories

• 2026 Triumph Speed Twin 1200 Cafe Racer Edition – limited to 800 units worldwide beginning March

  In Bikes, International Bike News, Triumph / by Mohan K Ramanujam / 29 January 2026 4:53 pm

  

  A limited edition mtorocyle from Hinckley, the 2026 Triumph Speed Twin 1200 Cafe Racer Edition, inspired by the original British cafe racers of the 1960s. Production is limited to only 800 units worldwide, with availability beginning March, and every Speed Twin 1200 Cafe Racer Edition comes with a. certificate of authenticity.

  Based on the production model Speed Twin 1200 RS, the Cafe Racer Edition comes with a British racing-inspired colour scheme, combining Competition Green and Aluminium Silver paintwork with Empire Gold coachline, and “Cafe Racer Edition” graphic on the fuel tank. This is complemented with Aluminium Silver wheels and a colour-coded Competition Green headlight cowl.

  Passenger footpegs are deleted (supplied with the Cafe Racer Edition in an accompanying box), while the clip-on handlebars and Clubman style seat, covered in brown, places the rider in a tucked-in racing crouch. Additional touches are machined bar-end mirrors, ribbed clutch and alternator cover badges, black head bolt covers and sculpted knee pads.

  

  

  

  

  Meanwhile, the side panels, finished in Competition Green, feature a Number 12 graphic in Aluminium Silver. Brushed aluminium front and rear mudguards add contrast, complementing the Aluminium Silver elements.

  Suspension for the Cafe Racer Edition uses fully-adjustable Marzocchi forks paired with Öhlins rear shock absorbers, also fully-adjustable. Braking performance is delivered by twin Brembo Stylema callipers acting on 320 mm diameter discs, while Metzeler Racetec RR K3 tyres come fitted as standard.

  No specification changes otherwise, with the Bonneville 1200 twin engine with 270‑degree firing order producing 105 PS at 7,750 rpm and 112 Nm of torque. A quickshifter equipped six-speed gearbox sends power to the rear wheel via chain final drive.

  

  There are three riding modes – Road, Rain and Sport – and cornering ABS and traction control are fitted as standard equipment. A road instrument binnacle houses both LCD and TFT-LCD displays, allowing for turn-by-turn navigation while a USB‑C charging socket is provided for charing the rider’s electronics.

  Pricing for the Speed Twin 1200 Cafe Racer Edition in the UK this March is 15,995 pounds sterling (RM86,995). In Malaysia, the Speed Twin 1200 RS, pricing starts from RM93,400.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  
  

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• Proton CEO: 21 China brands and 58 models now in Malaysia, but only five “real CKD,” and all low volume

  In Cars, Local News, Proton / by Gerard Lye / 29 January 2026 4:44 pm

  

  Keeping an eye on the competition is all part of business, and Proton is very much aware that the local market has seen an influx of Chinese players – the company gave us its own China brand-focused market overview at the start of 2025.

  At a recent media event where Proton talked about its past, present and future, CEO Li Chunrong said a total of 21 new and returning Chinese brands have been launched in Malaysia over the years. Collectively, these brands have introduced 58 models, with 64% being electric vehicles (EVs) while the remaining 36% are vehicles with some form of internal combustion engine (ICE).

  While some of these models compete directly with some of Proton’s offerings, the majority of them are not completely knocked down (CKD) models here. Li pointed out that only five out of the 58 models it listed are “real CKD” products.

  These “real CKD” models include the Chery Tiggo Cross, Jaecoo J8 as well as GAC’s GS3 Emzoom, M8 PHEV and Emkoo. Cars from Chery (Omoda 5, Omoda E5, Tiggo 8 Pro and Tiggo 7 Pro), Omoda | Jaecoo (J7 and C9) and Great Wall Motor (Haval H6) may roll off factory lines here in Malaysia, but they are deemed by Proton as semi-knocked down (SKD) models.

  

  In the case of CKD assembly, the entire car comes in a completely disassembled form before being put together here. On the other hand, SKD involves putting together partially assembled parts to create the final product.

  Another point that Li highlighted is low volume, as the 10 best-selling models in the list of 58 models averaged under 1,000 units a month. Some of the top performers identified by Proton include the Jaecoo J7, Omoda C9, Chery Tiggo 7 Pro and BYD Sealion 7.

  It has to be noted, however, that Proton itself runs an SKD local assembly operation with its eMas 7 (production has just started, after a year of CBU sales), while the smaller eMas 5 is still fully imported from China. The latter is sold under a CKD bridging programme to sidestep the previous floor pricing of RM100k for CBU EVs, which has now been upped to RM250k.

  However, we assume Proton has plans to move its eMas models to proper CKD operations in Tanjong Malim sooner rather than later. For comparison, Geely has started full CKD assembly of the EX2 (eMas 5 twin) in Indonesia with no less than 46.5% local content, including locally-assembled battery packs.

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• Proton since Geely tie-up – 34 new models, 10x quality improvement, 146 new showrooms, sales doubled

  In Cars, Local News, Proton / by Jonathan Lee / 29 January 2026 3:55 pm

  

  At Proton’s media night yesterday, CEO Li Chunrong touted the achievements the national carmaker has made since it entered a “strategic partnership” with Geely back in 2017 (and the eight years since he was tapped to run the firm in 2018). The company may still be a ways away from its stated goal, but there’s no denying it has come far.

  It’s hard to imagine the state Proton was in eight years ago. The December 2018 debut of its first joint venture product, the X70, didn’t stop sales from sliding to a new low of 64,764 units. The company was also haemorrhaging money every year, having registered a loss of RM1.2 billion the year before; as Li put it, Proton was on the brink of bankruptcy.

  The company responded by leveraging its partnership in a product offensive, launching several new Geely-based models and updating its indigenously-designed ones. Li said the company introduced a total of 34 new models, although as you can see in the image below, this includes a number of special editions such as the limited-run R3 variants and even cars from the smart brand. But the point still stands.

  

  Quality is another area where Proton made a significant leap, with Li claiming a “10x” improvement. The company adopted Geely’s Global Customer Product Audit (GCPA) standard in late 2017, recording a demerit score of 6,388; today, this figure is down to 677.

  Elsewhere, Li touted a greatly expanded network of 3S and 4S showrooms. Proton made a concerted effort to convert 1S and 2S centres even before the partnership, and having started with 75 3S/4S outlets in 2017, the company now boasts 173 such dealers nationwide. This expansion is made even more impressive when you consider that this does not include the 48 new eMas outlets selling new energy vehicles.

  

  This has had a profound impact of sales, which has more than doubled from its 2018 nadir to 157,916 units last year – Proton’s highest in 15 years. Exports also surged to 6,000 units in 2025, hitting its target and representing its highest number in 12 years.

  Proton is expecting another big lift this year and hit the 200,000-unit mark, which will be a tall order – but as we’ve seen here, it’s achieved some deeply impressive feats in less than a decade. What do you think – will the company be able to achieve its goal? Let us know in the comments.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  
  

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• Proton sales rebounded after Geely partnership – 144% climb from 2018 all-time low to 15-year high

  In Cars, Geely, Local News, Proton / by Jonathan James Tan / 29 January 2026 3:42 pm

  

  Hips don’t lie, Shakira once said. Well, neither can numbers, and the V-shaped graph above makes it clear as day the impact marrying Geely has had on Proton’s sales. Anyone here yet to find a life partner, here’s your motivation to hold out for the right one.

  In 2010, the national carmaker sold 153,041 cars to command a 26% market share, but sales would thereafter drop every year for the next eight years. What an incredibly long and painful slide, especially when fellow countryman Perodua, purveying only four models, just kept going from strength to strength.

  Comparatively, Proton was selling no fewer than 11 models during that period. There were hatchbacks, sedans and MPVs from segments A to D incorporating technology from Mitsubishi (Inspira), Honda (Perdana), Suzuki (Ertiga), Renault (Savvy) as well as itself (Satria Neo, Preve, Suprima S, PIES) – but not one SUV. Who would be interested in a tall thing with a high centre of gravity anyway, right?

  

  

  

  

  Things got so bad that in 2014, the non-nationals overtook the nationals for the first time by taking 53% of the market, and they stayed on top for four more years!

  Geely came in officially in 2017, and the transition period saw a 15-year low of 64,744 units sold in 2018 (only 11% market share), but the end of that year saw the launch of Proton’s first SUV – the X70 – and the turnaround was hard, fast and sharp as a flurry of Geely–based models followed.

  2019 saw Proton post a fantastic 56% year-on-year jump to 100,821 units, helping the national team wrest the majority back from the non-nationals. It’s since been up, up and away, save for a slight falter in 2024. Last year, Proton shifted 157,976 cars, finally bringing it back to its 2010 level. Onwards and upwards!

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• Proton new product offensive – AMA 02, 05, 06, next GMA EV planned; S70 MC and X90 MC coming soon

  In Cars, Local News, Proton / by Mick Chan / 29 January 2026 2:12 pm

  

  Proton has a slew of new and updated models in the pipeline, the carmaker has announced. Among the soonest to emerge from the national carmaker will be the next model to be based on the Advanced Modular Architecture (AMA), codenamed AMA02, after the AMA01 that is the 2026 Saga MC3.

  The AMA will be the basis of three more models from Proton, including the AMA02, AMA05 and AMA06, and Proton has hinted at some details in December at its Tech Showcase event. The positioning of the AMA02 in an earlier presentation slide suggests that it will have plenty in common with the latest Saga, particularly with the naturally aspirated version of the 1.5 litre i-GT four-cylinder engine.

  As such, the AMA02 is likely to be powered by the 120 PS/150 Nm unit that is paired with a four-speed Aisin automatic gearbox in the Standard and Executive variants of the Saga MC3.

  This will be joined by the AMA05 and AMA06 duo, which will be the Malaysian carmaker’s upcoming SUV and MPV models, respectively. Together with the AMA02, the AMA05 and AMA06 will replace the PIES (Persona, Iriz, Exora and old Saga) range.

  

  Between the AMA05 and AMA06, there will be an SUV and an MPV, and the SUV can be expected to use a hybrid powertrain with a DHT120 transmission. This will also be the powertrain for the accompanying MPV model, as indicated by Proton previously.

  There is a new Global Modular Architecture (GMA)-based model on the horizon, too. Announced in June 2024, the GMA will underpin five new Proton eMas models, including PHEVs and BEVs, Proton CEO Li Chunrong stated at the time.

  A presentation slide illustrated a transition from being CBU (fully imported) to being CKD (locally assembled); the eMas 7 CKD was announced this month, with production at Tanjong Malim having commenced last September – 10 month since the launch of the eMas 7 – and the smaller eMas 5 that was launched in October will be the next model to be locally assembled.

  

  There will also be mid-lifecycle updates to existing Proton models, namely, the X90 SUV and the S70 sedan. The sedan that was launched in November 2023 will receive visual changes including headlamps with integrated turn signals, along with a new multi-spoke wheel design which appears to be the same as that on the 2025 Geely Emgrand facelift, along with a new Ruby Red exterior colour.

  The S70 MC has been confirmed by Proton to receive the new 1.5 litre i-GT turbocharged inline-four petrol engine from the recently-updated X50, and this powertrain will also make its way into the upcoming X90 update.

  The X90 that was launched in May 2023 will receive its first update that mainly surrounds the BHE15-EFZ 1.5 litre unit that already powers the X70 MC3 that was launched earlier this month.

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• GWM Wey G9 MPV launched in Malaysia – 7-seater 1.5T Hi4 PHEV with 442 PS/642 Nm, CKD, RM269,800

  In Cars, GWM, Local News / by Anthony Lim / 29 January 2026 12:14 pm

  

  Great Wall Motor (GWM) Malaysia has launched the GWM Wey G9, taking the wraps off its first MPV offering earlier today. The PHEV makes its local debut after having initially been shown back in December 2024 at the 2024 Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS), and then subsequently at PACE in July last year, before being previewed yet again last September.

  First up, the price. As anticipated, the Wey G9 goes on sale here in a solitary variant form, priced at RM269,800, on-the-road without insurance. This is well below the under-RM300k pricing suggestion made during the September preview and when the order books opened for the car in December.

  The MPV is locally assembled (CKD) at EP Manufacturing’s (EPMB) Pegoh, Melaka plant, with the first units having rolled off the line last month. It isn’t the first CKD Chinese PHEV MPV in the country, of course, because the GAC M8 launched earlier.

  A quick recap of the model’s name. Originally known as the Wey 80, the switch to the Wey G9 places it right up against a host of competitors with a similar numerical naming convention (Denza D9, Maxus MIFA 9, Xpeng X9 and Zeekr 009). As mentioned previously, GWM says the G9 name has been copyrighted by it for Malaysia, so should the Xpeng G9 SUV ever get here, it’ll have to be renamed for this market.

  

  While the Wey is available in three body-length forms in China (the Gaoshan 7, 8 and 9), Malaysia gets the Gaoshan 7 equivalent, which is a seven-seat (2-2-3 layout) standard-wheelbase model measuring in at 5,050 mm, 1,985 mm wide and 1,900 mm tall, with a 3,085 mm-long wheelbase and 155 mm ground clearance.

  These dimensions make it longer in both body and wheelbase length than the Toyota Alphard/Vellfire, but shorter than its Chinese compatriots such as the Zeekr 009, Xpeng X9 and Denza D9, all of which are over 5.2 metres long and have wheelbases between 3.1 and 3.2 metres.

  The company does have the middle-wheelbase seven-seater (the Gaoshan 8; 5,280 mm-long, 3,145 mm wheelbase) option available in right-hand drive guise, as shown by its appearance at PACE and also for the September preview.

  

  

  GWM Wey G9 standard-wheelbase (Gaoshan 7, left) and middle-wheelbase (Gaoshan 8, right).

  It could be that the variant may arrive here at some point, given that GWM Malaysia is set to export the MPV to other markets in the region – it has already begun doing so, to Thailand, but in similar SWB guise, and Indonesia is on the cards. As for the long-wheelbase six-seater Gaoshan 9, which measures in at 5,405 mm (with a 3,205 mm wheelbase), it has been confirmed that we won’t be getting it.

  The Wey G9 is powered by the latest iteration of the automaker’s Hi4 Intelligent Hybrid 4WD system, in this case a variation of the base Hi4 called the Hi4 Performance, which is a dual-motor, four-speed dedicated hybrid transmission series/parallel set-up meant for mid to larger-sized platforms.

  The system is made up of a 1.5 litre turbocharged four-cylinder offering 150 PS (148 hp, or 110 kW) at 5,500 to 6,000 rpm and 240 Nm from 1,800 to 4,000 rpm (slightly lower than the 170 PS and 245 Nm in China), mated to a four-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT). This integrates a 109 PS (107 hp, or 80 kW) and 170 Nm electric motor to drive the front wheels, with another 184 PS (181 hp, or 135 kW) and 232 Nm motor at the rear.

  

  

  

  The combined system output for the G9 is 442 PS (436 hp, or 325 kW) and 642 Nm, slightly lower than the 458 PS and 644 Nm found in China. Performance figures for the MPV, which tips the scales at 2,803 kg, include a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 5.7 seconds and a 190 km/h top speed.

  The battery for the Malaysian Wey G9 is a 44.2 kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) unit, which is smaller in capacity to the 51.55 kWh unit for the Chinese market. Despite the smaller capacity, it provides the MPV with 170 km of NEDC-rated travel on pure electric power alone, which translates to about 145 km of WLTP-rated range. With a 58 litre fuel tank, total range is quoted at up to 1,000 km (NEDC), which equates to around 850 km WLTP.

  As for charging, the pack can be juiced up from a 30% to 80% state of charge via DC charging at a maximum rate of 60 kW in 26 minutes, while AC charging at 6.6 kW gets the pack filled up from 15% to 100% in 6.5 hours.

  

  

  

  Standard kit includes intelligent LED headlamps with auto high beam, LED daytime running lights and fog lamp, LED tail lights/rear fog lamps as well as dual sunroofs and 18-inch 10-double spoke two-tone alloys, wrapped with 245/50 Michelin Primacy 5 energy tyres. Suspension consists of McPherson fronts and multi-link rears, with frequency response dampers. It was previously highlighted that local tuning on the suspension had been carried out to improve the ride to local tastes.

  Inside, the Wey G9 features the updated interior brought along with the introduction of the expanded line-up in China last year, making Malaysia the first country outside of China to get the update as well as the car in RHD guise.

  The update brings along a new two-spoke steering wheel, a 12.3-inch digital instrument display and a 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen (but without the dual screen layout as seen in China, omitting the passenger display), with the latter running on GWM’s latest Coffee OS 3.

  

  

  

  The centre row zero-gravity captain chairs are also new, redesigned to now include physical seat adjustment controls located on the forward edge of the inner armrests on both seats. The six-way adjustable units are ventilated and come with a 10-point massage function and built-in ottomans.

  Elsewhere, the front seats are power-adjustable with memory function/ventilation, with the driver’s side also getting a 10-point massage feature. Upholstery is in Nappa leather across the first two rows, with leatherette for the third row units.

  Novelties include a shared rail design for the second and third row seats, which provides an extra-long slide rail of 1,845 mm for second-row seating adjustment, allowing for up to 1,166 mm of legroom to be gained for second-row occupants.

  

  

  

  Luggage compartment capacity is 233 litres with the rear seats up, but expandable to 1,725 litres. Incidentally, the third-row seats have not been designed to fold completely flat because thicker cushions have been utilised for better comfort, with the design focused more on passenger comfort than utility.

  The automaker says the use of double-glazed acoustic glass for the windscreen and front/second-row windows as well as the implementation of an HALOSonic active noise cancellation system translates to a quiet cabin, with the interior noise level measuring just 63.4 dB at 120 km/h.

  The comprehensive equipment list includes 64-colour ambient lighting, a head-up display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 50-watt Qi wireless charger, a 2,440 watt/21-speaker audio system, a hands-free powered tailgate, 11 USB ports across the cabin and a three-zone automatic air-conditioning system. At the preview last September, the company mentioned that the AC performance has been improved for the local car, with the AC compressor being tuned to manage the warmer weather here.

  

  

  

  Other bits of interest include a 12.5 litre large fridge with an independent compressor and adjustable temperature from 0-50°C. The two-tier, dual-opening unit – with front armrest access for the driver and front passenger and a rear drawer for convenient reach for rear occupants – can hold up to six bottles on the upper level and 10 cans below. Additionally, the fridge can continue operating for up to 24 hours with the engine off.

  Safety-wise, the G9 comes equipped with six airbags (including full-length curtain units – measuring more than three metres long – across all three rows), a 360-degree camera and a full complement of driver assistance kit, including autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane centring assist, blind spot monitoring with collision prevention, rear cross traffic alert with auto brake and a door opening warning.

  In terms of exterior colours, buyers can pick from three options, and these are Wisdom Grey, Nebula Black and Aurora White. As for the interior colour schemes, there will be two, these being brown and black.

  

  The GWM Wey G9 comes with a six-year unlimited mileage vehicle warranty and an eight-year or 180,000 km hybrid system warranty, covering the battery pack, power motor and control unit. Standard ownership benefits include five years of free connected services data, five years of free maintenance and a complimentary home wallbox charger.

  To mark the introduction of the Wey G9, the company announced that the first 1,000 customers will receive a complimentary LED screen integrated into the cabin for rear passengers.

  As for expected volume, GWM said that the projected yearly sales volume for the Wey G9 is 5,000 units for the domestic market and 5,000 units for export. The current localisation rate for the car is at 40.05%, which meets the necessary Regional Value Content (RVC) percentage to satisfy AFTA content requirements.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  GALLERY: GWM Wey G9 standard-wheelbase studio shots

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

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• Honda Malaysia sold 72,301 units in 2025 – No.1 non-national passenger vehicle brand for 12th straight year

  In Cars, Honda, Local News / by Gerard Lye / 29 January 2026 11:43 am

  

  Honda Malaysia (HM) has announced that it sold a total of 72,301 vehicles in 2025, which is enough for it to maintain its number one spot in the non-national passenger vehicle segment for a 12th consecutive year.

  When factored against the 820,752 new cars sold last year, as reported by the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA), Honda Malaysia’s total sales in 2025 represent an 8.8% market share. In 2024, the company managed 81,600 units.

  “I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to our customers for their continued confidence and unwavering trust in the Honda brand, which inspires us to keep raising the bar,” said Narushi Yazaki, managing director and CEO of Honda Malaysia.

  “We also sincerely thank all stakeholders for their steadfast support over the years, as well as the Malaysian government for its continued support for our sustainability and electrification initiatives. The solid performance in 2025 has further strengthened our confidence in Honda’s product direction and reinforced our commitment to delivering practical electrification solutions,” he added.

  

  The HR-V was Honda Malaysia’s best-selling model in 2025 by making up 25% of total sales, followed by the City with 24% and CR-V at 15%. Hybrid variants of the HR-V and CR-V also sold well, accounting for more than 30% of the company’s total hybrid sales. At present, the company offers a hybrid variant for five out of the eight models it sells, with the only exceptions being the WR-V, Civic Type R and e:N1, the last of which is Honda’s first fully electric model sold here.

  “As we mark 21 years (2004–2025) since the introduction of our hybrid technology, strengthening the presence of our hybrid models across major segments remains a key priority. By integrating advanced hybrid technology, we aim to deliver an engaging and rewarding driving experience for every customer. We remain committed to driving long-term growth and supporting a more sustainable future for the Honda brand,” commented Yazaki.

  Last year also marked Honda Malaysia’s 25th anniversary, which saw the launch of the ‘Because of You’ campaign in October featuring a three month-lucky draw that saw winners walk away with six giveaway cars and other prizes.

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• Overloading crackdown will be year-round – Loke

  In Local News, Public Transport / by Jonathan James Tan / 29 January 2026 10:50 am

  

  The ‘war against overloaded commercial vehicles‘, or Ops Perang Lebih Muatan, is not a seasonal thing; it will be carried out year-round, transport minister Anthony Loke has said, according to a Bernama report.

  “Last year, we launched large-scale operations against overloading, and they had a significant impact by demonstrating the government’s seriousness in addressing this issue. However, some parties assumed enforcement ended last December. So, I want to make it clear that enforcement activities are ongoing at all times and remain a core responsibility of the road transport department (JPJ),” he said yesterday.

  169,965 heavy vehicles were inspected from October 14 to December 31, 2025 – 3,563 were found overloaded and 6,843 notices were issued to drivers and vehicle owners, along with 4,983 saman.

  “If violations are detected, firm action will be taken. Do not assume enforcement has been halted or relaxed,” Loke said, adding that enforcement this year will also place strong emphasis on overall road safety, including drink-driving, street racing and bikers’ safety.

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• Proton AMA02 launching in 2026 – Saga Cross SUV, MPV or hatchback, DHT120 hybrid to debut?

  In Cars, Local News, Proton / by Jonathan Lee / 29 January 2026 10:10 am

  

  Proton is being incredibly bullish this year, targeting a 26% increase in sales to 200,000 units. Central to its expected surge is the new Saga, but the national carmaker will also need new product to drive customers to showrooms, and last night CEO Li Chunrong confirmed that the next model built on the Advanced Modular Architecture (AMA), codenamed AMA02, will be launched this year.

  No other details have been released just yet, but Proton has already revealed previously that the platform will spawn SUV and MPV variants, likely taking aim at the Perodua Ativa and Alza respectively. We’ve speculated about a “Saga Cross” for a while now, with Photoshop wizard Theophilus Chin having produced multiple renders, including some just this week.

  Such a model is slated to be powered by the Saga’s 120 PS/150 Nm 1.5 litre i-GT naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine mated to an Aisin four-speed automatic gearbox. There will also be the option of a less powerful, non-plug-in hybrid version of the eMas 7 PHEV’s powertrain – something that is also set to be offered on the MPV. The “DHT120” tag indicates a combined output of 163 PS (120 kW).

  

  Proton is promising big things for the forthcoming AMA models, such as targeted five-star ASEAN NCAP safety ratings, a revised suspension architecture to improve ride and handling, shorter product development times and built-in readiness for export markets, including support for left-hand drive conversions. These cars are all expected to retail under RM80,000.

  But let’s face it. If Proton really wants to steal sales from Perodua – which it needs to if it’s to hit its lofty sales target – then it needs to attack Rawang’s hatchback models first. The Axia and Myvi swept the remaining podium places last year behind the Bezza; by contrast, the Alza and Ativa were fifth and sixth respectively, behind the Saga.

  

  As such, a Saga hatchback would be the logical next step, broadening the sedan’s appeal while also (presumably) being easy to develop. The latter is because the carryover structure was actually developed as a hatch first – remember, the Saga can trace its roots all the way back to the Savvy from 2005.

  If it does come to fruition, expect it to utilise the sedan’s powertrains, including the aforementioned 1.5 litre engine and four-speed auto combo but also a Punch CVT on the Premium. Are you excited for the AMA02, whichever form it will take? Let us know in the comments.

  GALLERY: 2026 Proton Saga 1.5 Premium CVT MC3

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

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• JPJ should adopt ANPR system in place of roadblocks to reduce congestion, improve effectiveness – Loke

  In Local News / by Gerard Lye / 29 January 2026 9:56 am

  

  Transport minister Anthony Loke has said the road transport department (JPJ) must adopt a new approach to roadblocks to reduce congestion and improve effectiveness, reports Bernama.

  Loke pointed out that current physical roadblocks often resulted in severe traffic congestion, especially when roads are narrowed down to just one or two lanes, which can lead to long delays and public frustration. “I don’t want to see JPJ setting up roadblocks after toll plazas, turning six lanes into one. People will get angry. That’s an outdated approach. JPJ must also change and adopt smarter methods,” he said.

  One possible solution to this issue is to use automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) technology to perform vehicle checks without stopping traffic. “With today’s technology, we can integrate the ANPR system operated by PLUS with JPJ’s MySikap system. Through inter-agency data sharing, enforcement can be more comprehensive and effective without relying on physical roadblocks,” Loke explained.

  ANPR is currently used by PLUS Malaysia for its open payment tolling system and relies on cameras to identify a vehicle’s registration number. By integrating with MySikap, ANPR can not only streamline toll collection but also allow authorities to automatically verify road tax and insurance status, and identify stolen or unregistered vehicles.

  Loke also said such an approach aligns with a whole-of-government strategy that promotes cross-ministerial cooperation and breaks down operational silos to improve public service efficiency.

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• Toyota Vios Hybrid in Malaysia – 111 PS, 27.8 km/l, CKD battery, HEV and GR Sport, RM104k to RM110k

  In Cars, Local Car Launches, Local News, Toyota / by Jonathan Lee / 29 January 2026 9:00 am

  

  Toyota Vios 1.5 HEV GR Sport

  Teased earlier this month, the Toyota Vios Hybrid has been launched in Malaysia, some five months after it made its debut in Thailand. As previously reported, the petrol-electric B-segment sedan arrives in two variants, including a look-faster GR Sport variant.

  Prices are exactly as estimated – RM103,900 for the regular 1.5 HEV and RM109,900 for the 1.5 HEV GR Sport, both on-the-road without insurance. That makes the car RM7,300 more expensive than the petrol-powered 1.5G, with the GR Sport costing RM13,300 more.

  Against the RM111,900 Honda City e:HEV RS, the equivalent GR Sport is RM2,000 cheaper, and its main rival does not have a “base” variant to bridge the gap to the RM99,900 City RS petrol. All models come with a five-year warranty and an eight-year battery warranty, both with unlimited mileage. Customers can extend the battery warranty by another two years for an extra RM2,500, resulting in a total coverage of ten years.

  

  Toyota Vios 1.5 HEV GR Sport

  Just like the petrol Vios, the Hybrid is CKD locally assembled in Bukit Raja, Klang, and so is the battery. Distributor UMW Toyota Motor is proud of the localisation work done as part of its investment into the plant, with 97% of the battery’s components being assembled here. The factory is capable of producing up to 30,000 batteries annually.

  Of course, the big news is the hybrid powertrain, which the Vios shares with the ASEAN-market Yaris Cross (and was expected for the Perodua Traz). Unlike its other Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA) siblings, the Daihatsu Rocky e-Smart Hybrid/Toyota Raize Hybrid/Perodua Ativa Hybrid, this utilises the in-house-developed, fourth-generation Toyota Hybrid System setup, incorporating the E-CVT planetary gearset to enable a mechanical connection between the combustion engine and the driven wheels.

  That engine is the 1.5 litre 2NR-VEX naturally-aspirated Dual VVT-i four-cylinder, which differs from the standard 2NR-VE by operating on an Atkinson cycle. Outputs are rated at 91 PS at 5,500 rpm and 121 Nm of torque from 4,000 to 4,800 rpm.

  

  With the 80 PS/141 Nm electric motor coupled up, the Vios Hybrid makes a sum total of 111 PS – 5 PS more than the petrol Vios. A 0.76 kWh lithium-ion battery – more modern than the nickel metal hydride (NiMH) packs on previous Toyota hybrids – enables the car to run on pure electricity alone for brief periods. Fuel consumption is rated at 3.6 litres per 100 km (27.8 km per litre).

  The rest of the car is standard Vios stuff, with MacPherson strut front and torsion beam rear suspension, electric power steering and disc brakes all around. However, the structure has been strengthened to improve quality and safety, and there has been additional sound insulation applied. The GR Sport, the second such model in the nameplate’s history, receives uprated springs and dampers (ride height remains unchanged), and for the first time, the EPS has also been retuned.

  On the standard HEV model, the wheels are an inch smaller than the 1.5G’s and measure 16 inches in diameter, with a different turbine-style design compared to the 1.5E. The GR Sport steps back up to 17-inch aero wheels with slender machined silver “spokes”, with all rollers upgraded from four to five lugs – presumably to adapt to the hybrid’s 120 kg increase in weight.

  

  

  Toyota Vios 1.5 HEV

  Beyond the new wheels, the HEV looks very similar to the petrol Vios, retaining the aggressive, almost catfish-like front end. There are a few minor trim changes – for instance, the strip joining the headlights and the window trim are both finished in dark chrome.

  The rest of the exterior pieces such as the massive slatted grille, the extended “vortex generator” bumper corners and even the rear number plate garnish have been lightened from the usual gloss black to metallic grey. As with other Vios models in Malaysia, the HEV comes as standard with a bodykit, boot lid spoiler and door visors, with the front splitter, two-tone side skirts and rear diffuser-like insert also finished in grey.

  The GR Sport reverts all the aforementioned trim to black (including the rubberised window trim) and adds a unique bodykit – as before, it’s tacked onto the standard front and rear bumpers. The massive grille gains a honeycomb insert which, when combined with the angular corner air inlets, provides some resemblance to the pre-facelifted GR Yaris. You also get black door mirrors, single-tone side skirts and a different boot lid spoiler. The rear end is particularly aggressive, with a sizeable diffuser and L-shaped bumper corners.

  

  

  Toyota Vios 1.5 HEV (left) vs. GR Sport

  Available colours for the GR Sport are Scarlet SE, Platinum White Pearl and Attitude Black Mica, with the base HEV adding Silver Metallic and an exclusive Celestite Grey Metallic – the latter from the Corolla sedan and Corolla Cross. White is a RM400 option, and you can also spec the GR Sport in scarlet or white with a black roof, costing RM1,500 and RM1,800 respectively.

  The Vios’ well-appointed interior is also mostly unchanged, still with a black and maroon colour scheme, a stitched soft-touch dashboard and black leather upholstery. It has been brightened up by a blue push-button starter and extended ambient lighting, with a new dashboard strip and door card illumination to join the footwells and centre console; users can still cycle through the 64 colours via buttons aft of the gearlever.

  The Hybrid also introduces a much taller 10.1-inch touchscreen head unit, more than an inch larger than on the petrol models and with the capacitive shortcut keys moved from the right to the bottom. As before, you get wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, six speakers and a Qi wireless charger under the centre armrest. The seven-inch instrument display and digital speedometer are retained but feature hybrid-specific screens.

  

  Toyota Vios 1.5 HEV GR Sport

  As per the exterior, the GR Sport is slightly different on the inside, with an all-black colour scheme, darker silver trim and a GR-branded steering wheel with gloss black spokes. The seats are also exclusively trimmed in leather and suede, again with the GR logo embroidered into the headrests.

  Moving rearwards, the hybrid battery is mounted under the rear seats without compromising the Vios’ already modest headroom; the usual cooling vent can be found on the passenger side. To make space for it, the fuel tank is slightly smaller at 36 litres, versus 40 litres for the petrol models. Also, the rear USB ports are now both USB-C, although the head unit still uses a USB-A port for data.

  The addition of electric gubbins in the engine bay does mean that the 12-volt battery has been shunted to the boot (also on the passenger side), reducing boot space by 15 litres to 460 litres. You still can’t fold the rear seats, but you do at least now get spare tyre, and it’s a full-size alloy unit too – something UMW Toyota finally added last year in response to customer complaints. The more rearward weight distribution should also improve handling.

  

  

  

  

  Standard kit continues to includes keyless entry, single-zone auto air-con with rear vents, manual front seat adjustment, auto lights and wipers, an acoustic glass windscreen, illuminated side sill scuff plates, an electronic parking brake, a rubber boot tray, solar and security window tint and a 360-degree camera system with a 3D view. The UMW-sourced dash cam has been upgraded to a 4K unit without a built-in screen, and you can still add a rear dash cam for an extra RM380.

  Like the standard Vios, the Hybrid comes with the full Toyota Safety Sense suite of driver assists, including autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane centring assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, front departure alert, pedal misapplication control and auto high beam. Six airbags and stability control are also fitted.

  GALLERY: Toyota Vios 1.5 HEV in Malaysia

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: Toyota Vios 1.5 HEV GR Sport in Malaysia

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY; Toyota Vios Hybrid CKD battery

  

  

  

  

  
  

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• Proton targets to sell 200k units in 2026, 26% up on 2025 – break 227k by 2027, Malaysia’s No 1 by 2029

  In Cars, Local News, Proton / by Jonathan James Tan / 28 January 2026 7:56 pm

  

  Proton revealed on December 4 that its 2026 sales target was 180,000 units – well, according to CEO Dr Li Chunrong, this has now been increased to 200,000, which is 26% more than the 157,976 units it sold in 2025, itself just 3.3% better than 2024. Extremely exponential expectations not excluding exports.

  For this to be achieved, Proton aims for the Saga to be Malaysia’s No 1 model, Proton eMas to be the country’s No 1 EV brand and the eMas 7 PHEV to be the nation’s No 1 PHEV.

  

  

  

  Maintained is the ‘30+30+30 by 2030‘ target, which comprises 330,000 units (first announced in January 2025), 30% of them hybrids and EVs, 30% sold outside Malaysia and 30 export markets (these three were announced last month).

  The carmaker targets to “graduate from university” in 2027 with over 227,000-unit sales – this number is significant because it’s the highest annual sales Proton has ever done in its history. By 2029, it aims to be Malaysia’s best-selling carmaker, which means toppling the mighty Perodua (currently ASEAN’s No 2).

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  
  

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• 2026 Proton Saga MC3 bookings have exceeded 70,000

  In Cars, Local News, Proton / by Jonathan James Tan / 28 January 2026 7:19 pm

  

  Proton CEO Dr Li Chunrong has just announced that bookings for the 2026 Proton Saga MC3 have exceeded 70,000, just two months after the car’s November 27 launch. That’s an average of over 1,100 orders a day if my maths is right.

  The carmaker announced on January 5 that it had sold 10,000 units when bookings were around 30,000, so the number of registrations should be quite a bit more than that by now.

  To recap, the Saga is available in three variants – the RM38,990 Standard, the RM44,990 Executive and the RM49,990 Premium. The RM1,000 early-bird rebate has given way to January rebates of up to RM500 plus up to RM300 if you trade in.

  

  

  

  Retaining the same basic structure as before but on a new Advanced Modular Architecture (AMA), it has been comprehensively redesigned with new features such as LED lighting, dual displays for instrumentation and infotainment and, exclusive to the Premium, driver assists such as autonomous emergency braking and blind spot monitoring.

  All models are powered by a new 120 PS/150 Nm 1.5 litre BHE15-CFN Intelligent Green Technology (i-GT) naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine. This is mated to either an Aisin four-speed automatic gearbox or a Punch CVT, the latter only on the Premium.

  Looking forward, the Saga should continue selling strongly in its full year of sales in 2026, likely bolstered by increased volume. Exports are also expected to rise significantly, as the car is set to be rebadged as a Geely, with the Philippines already confirmed as its first major market this year. Read our full review, see maintenance costs, compare specs and dive deep via our launch report.

  GALLERY: 2026 Proton Saga 1.5 Premium CVT MC3

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: 2026 Proton Saga 1.5 Executive A/T MC3
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: 2026 Proton Saga 1.5 Standard A/T MC3

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

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• Malaysian fuel prices January 29 to February 4, 2026 – diesel up 4 sen, RM2.92; RON95, RON97 unchanged

  In Local News, Malaysian Fuel Prices / by Mick Chan / 28 January 2026 6:38 pm

  

  It is Wednesday, which means it is time once again for the weekly fuel price update as announced by the ministry of finance, for the coming week of January 29 to February 4, 2026.

  The price change for the coming week concerns diesel fuels, which gets a four sen per litre increase to RM2.92 per litre for the Euro 5 B10 and B20 blends, up from RM2.88 per litre last week. Correspondingly, the Euro 5 B7 blend, which is 20 sen more per litre, climbs to RM3.12 per litre for the coming week. The retail price of diesel fuels in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan stays unchanged at RM2.15 per litre.

  Also remaining unchanged for this week are the prices of petrol. As such, subsidised RON 95 petrol under the Budi Madani RON 95 (Budi95) scheme remains at RM1.99 per litre. Malaysians with a valid driving licence are eligible for the fuel at a monthly quota of 300 litres.

  The price of unsubsidised RON95 petrol continues at its current price of RM2.54 per litre, as does RON 97 petrol, which remains at RM3.10 per litre.

  These prices take effect from midnight tonight until Wednesday, February 4, 2026, when the next set of fuel price updates are announced. This is the fifth edition of the weekly fuel pricing format for 2026, and the 368th in total since the format was introduced at the start of 2019.

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• Proposal to limit motorcycle access to Malaysian highways needs to be carefully studied says Loke

  In Bikes, Local Bike News, Local News / by Mohan K Ramanujam / 28 January 2026 6:09 pm

  

  Any proposal to limit motorcycle access to Malaysian highways needs to be carefully studied. This was said by Transport Minister Anthony Loke, with examination of any proposal’s impact and effectiveness.

  Loke said any proposal may be forwarded but carefully studied for its feasibility and real-world impact, reports the New Straits Times. “There are various proposals being submitted, including from highway operators such as PLUS Malaysia Berhad but whether they are practical or not needs to be assessed,” he said at a press conference here today after attending the Transport Ministry’s 2026 New Year Address.

  Suggestions have been forwarded to limit motorcycles on highways during specific time periods or capacity levels to reduce conflict with other vehicles, especially during peak periods. This follows a sharp rise in road fatalities involving motorcyclists over the last three years.

  

  “Among the factors to be considered is whether such proposals would affect other road users who genuinely need to use highways to reach their destinations,” said Loke. Loke added, “We know there may be benefits from a safety perspective, particularly in preventing highways from becoming venues for illegal racing.”

  Police statistics attributed speeding, reckless riding and violations of traffic regulations amongst the main factors contributing to yearly increase in road deaths. Loke clarified the matter does not fall entirely under the Transport ministry’s jurisdiction, as it also involves the Malaysian Highway Authority (MHA), the Works Ministry and highway concessionaires.

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