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  • BMW XM Label in Malaysia – 748 PS/1,000 Nm PHEV with improved chassis, insulation; RM1.65 million OTR

    BMW XM Label in Malaysia – 748 PS/1,000 Nm PHEV with improved chassis, insulation; RM1.65 million OTR

    BMW Malaysia has announced the local arrival of the BMW XM Label, which succeeds the Label Red and is now the sole available variant in the XM line-up in Malaysia. Here, the BMW XM Label is priced from RM1,554,800, or RM1,650,500 with BMW Service & Repair Inclusive, the latter consisting of a five-year warranty and servicing package and an eight-year high-voltage battery warranty; prices are on-the-road without insurance.

    This retains the powertrain specification of the Label Red, 4.4 litre twin-turbocharged petrol V8 engine that produces 585 PS from 5,600 rpm to 6,500 rpm and 750 Nm from 1,800 rpm to 5,400 rpm on its own, combining with a 197 PS/480 Nm electric drive motor to produce a total output of 748 PS and 1,000 Nm.

    Drive goes to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the 0-100 km/h run is elapsed in a claimed 3.8 seconds, while top speed is limited to 250 km/h.

    BMW XM Label in Malaysia – 748 PS/1,000 Nm PHEV with improved chassis, insulation; RM1.65 million OTR

    The battery in the XM Label is a 25.7 kWh unit that provides up to 83 km (WLTP) of purely electric running, and can reach a maximum of 140 km/h on battery power alone. For home charging this takes up to 11 kW AC through the AC Charging Plus specification as standard, which brings a 0-100% charge in two hours and 45 minutes.

    Further revisions brought by the XM Label include a retuned chassis for improved road feedback, and added acoustic insulation aids cabin refinement, says BMW Malaysia. Suspension hardware for the XM is comprised of double wishbones in front and a five-link setup at the rear, with adaptive M suspension Professional featuring electronically controlled dampers and 48-volt active roll stabilisation.

    The introduction of the XM Label brings a selection of four matte paint choices from the BMW Individual range, and these area Frozen Tanzanite Blue, Frozen Marina Bay Blue, Frozen Black, and Frozen Brilliant White. Aesthetic updates continue with the upgraded Welcome Light Carpet that brings a new animated greeting, while rolling stock is a set of 23-inch Style 1096 M alloy wheels in high-gloss black.

    Inside, the XM Label get the BMW Individual Merino leather upholstery with a choice of four colours; Night Blue, Deep Black, Deep Lagoon and Silverstone. Comfort cushions are now standard across all upholstery colours.

    The BMW XM Label is on sale in Malaysia from RM1,554,800, or RM1,650,500 with BMW Service & Repair Inclusive that includes a five-year warranty and servicing package and an eight-year high-voltage battery warranty.

    2026 BMW XM Label interior, Merino Night Blue

    2026 BMW XM Label interior, Merino Black

    2026 BMW XM Label interior, Merino Deep Lagoon

    2026 BMW XM Label interior, Merino Silverstone

     
  • Chery QQ3 EV in Beijing – eMas 5, Wuling Bingo rival coming to Malaysia as the Q sometime in early 2027

    Chery QQ3 EV in Beijing – eMas 5, Wuling Bingo rival coming to Malaysia as the Q sometime in early 2027

    The Chery QQ3 was one of the busier Chery exhibits at Auto China 2026 during the opening media preview day, and for good reason, as it made its domestic market debut recently. However, the EV is already a bit familiar, having already been sighted closer to home as the Chery Q that made its ASEAN debut last month at the Bangkok International Motor Show.

    If you thought that its appearance in Thailand meant that it was heading our way next, you were right, as Chery Malaysia has indicated that the Q will be coming here sometime early next year. When it does, it will take the fight to the likes of the Proton eMas 5 and Wuling Bingo, and local assembly is expected to keep the price competitive.

    What will you get for the money? A rather sizable proposition, despite its city car leanings. At 4,195 mm long, 1,811 mm wide and 1,573 mm tall, the Q is among the larger models in the class, being 60 mm longer, six millimetres wider and seven millimetres lower than the eMas 5. Its 2,700 mm wheelbase is also 50 mm longer.

    Styling-wise, the QQ3/Q’s lines follow the general similarity seen across Chinese city EVs, with quite a bit of familiarity in its depiction and lines. In this case, the format includes rounded head- and taillights with dual horizontal light guides, flush pull-up door handles and a cut D-pillar for a “floating roof” look.

    Sitting on the automaker’s T12 platform, the QQ3 features a single rear motor, rear-wheel drive powertrain, in two output – and corresponding battery – configurations, the first being 79 PS (78 hp, or 58 kW) and 90 Nm of torque, with a 29.48 kWh LFP battery providing a range of 310 km on the CLTC cycle, which translates to around 250 km WLTP.

    The second combination pairs a 122 PS (121 hp, or 90 kW) and 115 Nm output with a larger 41.28 kWh battery for a CLTC range of 420 km, or around 340 km WLTP. In terms of charging, the Q supports up to 85 kW of DC fast charging, with all models taking 16.5 minutes to top up the battery from 30 to 80%.

    Inside, the cabin follows the general presentation template for the type. You’ll find an 8.8-inch instrument display and a 15.6-inch centre touchscreen as well as power-adjustable, heated and ventilated front seats, a 50-watt Qi wireless charger and a powered tailgate. Elsewhere, the boot offers 375 litres of volume capacity, which can be expanded to 1,450 litres with the rear seats folded, and a 70 litre frunk and 35 litres of rear under-seat storage add on to that.

    Safety-wise, the QQ3/Q comes with six airbags, while driver assist kit includes autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane centring assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert with auto brake, a front departure alert, a door opening warning and auto high beam. Also to be found is a 360-degree camera system and park assist.

    GALLERY: Chery Q at Bangkok International Motor Show 2026

     
  • Geely Galaxy A7 in Beijing – PHEV up to 235 km EV range, EV up to 550 km range; want an eMas D-sedan?

    Geely Galaxy A7 in Beijing – PHEV up to 235 km EV range, EV up to 550 km range; want an eMas D-sedan?

    Also on Geely’s Auto China 2026 stand in Beijing are the PHEV and EV versions of the Geely Galaxy A7, which respectively debuted in July 2025 and earlier this month. Let’s take a closer look.

    This handsome mid-size sedan began life as a PHEV first, so let’s start with that. Length, width, height and wheelbase are respectively 4,918, 1,905, 1,495 and 2,845 mm, placing it firmly in the D segment.

    Called the A7 EM in China, the PHEV marries a 111 PS/136 Nm 1.5 litre BHE15PFI non-turbo four-cylinder engine (47.26% thermal efficiency) with an 11-to-1 one-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT). The DHT has two motors including a 238 PS/262 Nm traction motor. 0-100 km/h takes 7.1 seconds and top speed is 190 km/h.

    Batteries? Choose between an 18.4 kWh one (2.22 litres per 100 km, 150 km EV range, CLTC) or an 28.3 kWh one (2.29 litres per 100 km, 235 km EV range, 2,100 km combined range); both are LFP. Peak charging rates are 37 kW DC (30-80% in 18 minutes) and 3.3 kW AC.

    Meanwhile, the EV version has one front-mounted 218 PS electric motor, a 58.05 kWh LFP battery, a 7.4-second 0-100 km/h time and a 550-km CLTC range. Powertrain aside, here’s how the PHEV and EV differ – front bumper design, a slightly bigger boot for the EV (547 versus 535 litres), slightly more ground clearance for the PHEV (145 versus 125 mm) and an active grille shutter for the PHEV.

    Their interiors are pretty much the same – two-spoke steering wheel, 16 Flyme Sound speakers (including headrest speakers), 10.25-inch instrument panel and 15.4-inch touch-screen. It’s unlikely at the moment, but how would you like this as a larger and more premium Proton eMas sedan to lord above this one?

    Geely Galaxy A7 EM PHEV at Auto China 2026 in Beijing

    Geely Galaxy A7 EV at Auto China 2026 in Beijing

     
  • Omoda C4 coming to Malaysia – B-segment SUV, 1.5T petrol, SHS-H hybrid, Lambo start button; C7 this year

    Omoda C4 coming to Malaysia – B-segment SUV, 1.5T petrol, SHS-H hybrid, Lambo start button; C7 this year

    Unveiled at the Chery International User Summit last year, the production Omoda C4 made another appearance at the ongoing Auto China show in Beijing today. At the event, Omoda & Jaecoo Malaysia officials confirmed that the B-segment SUV will come to our shores, joining an expanding Omoda lineup that will also include the C7 (there’s also the Omoda 5, but that’s sold here as a Chery).

    It was also announced that the C4 will be made available with a choice of turbo petrol and hybrid variants, the latter carrying the new SHS-H badge (Super Hybrid System…Hybrid?). Both feature a 1.5 litre four-cylinder engine, meaning that they are likely the same powertrains found in the Chery Tiggo Cross.

    As a refresher, the Tiggo Cross Turbo produces 147 PS and 210 Nm of torque, sent to the front wheels via a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. Meanwhile, the Hybrid is motivated by an electric motor that churns out 204 PS and 310 Nm, with its 96 PS/120 Nm naturally-aspirated mill able to clutch in via the single-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT) to drive the car at higher speeds.

    This will differentiate the C4 from its related sibling, the Jaecoo J5. That car uses the same turbo four-pot but mates it to a CVT, while a 211 PS/280 Nm electric version with a 58.9 kWh LFP battery and an NEDC-rated range of 461 km (expect around 390 km on the WLTP cycle) is also available – just not in Malaysia.

    The C4 continues to be a very aggressive-looking thing, all straight lines and sharp angles with a jutting nose and chin spoiler, X-shaped signature front lighting, a black mask-like graphic, criss-crossing creases and lightning-shaped taillights. The 18-inch two-tone wheels have changed from what was previously shown, with a new turbine-style design.

    Inside, the C4 features a large portrait-format infotainment touchscreen similar to the J5, with the difference being that the slim instrument display is a full colour unit rather than the Jaecoo’s seven-segment (yes, like an old calculator) LCD panel. You also get your usual dual phone holders (one of which is a Qi wireless charger) and two rows of minimal physical controls, the latter flanking a flamboyant Lamborghini-style flip-up red starter button cover.

    Omoda C7

    Separately, Omoda & Jaecoo Malaysia has also confirmed that the Omoda C7 will finally be launched in Malaysia this year. The C-segment SUV was shown back home as far back as last May at the Malaysia Autoshow, and was also spotted on the road several times up until November, but things had gone quiet up until now.

    Expect the car to arrive in pure petrol form first, powered by a 197 PS/290 Nm 1.6 litre turbo four-cylinder engine paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. A plug-in hybrid version is also expected, using the SHS powertrain from the Jaecoo J7 PHEV.

    GALLERY: Omoda C4 at Auto China 2026


    GALLERY: Omoda C7 at Malaysia Autoshow 2025

     
  • 2026 Zeekr 8X on display in Beijing – 2.0T PHEV with up to 1,400 PS, 1,205 km WLTP hybrid; from RM207k

    2026 Zeekr 8X on display in Beijing – 2.0T PHEV with up to 1,400 PS, 1,205 km WLTP hybrid; from RM207k

    Following the reveal of the Zeekr 8X – a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) – in January this year, the brand’s new SUV that slots in below the flagship 9X has now made its public debut at the ongoing Auto China (also known as Auto Beijing).

    Unlike its larger sibling, the 8X is built on the SEA-S platform that was previously referred to as the Electric Premium Architcture (EPA). The ‘S’ version of the Sustainable Experience Architecture differs from the SEA-R used for the 9X.

    Another way the 8X differentiates itself from the 9X is in terms of styling. Where the latter more than bears a resemblance to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, the 8X cuts down on the simpler, upright surfaces for a curvier, sportier look.

    Even so, both share a few design cues like a massive front grille flanked by C-shaped LED headlamps that have starlight lighting elements and horizontal daytime running light strips – additional projectors sit below.

    2026 Zeekr 8X on display in Beijing – 2.0T PHEV with up to 1,400 PS, 1,205 km WLTP hybrid; from RM207k

    Elsewhere, the C-pillars are less flamboyant than the thick and silver-painted ones on the 9X, while the full-width taillights get the same twin-bar graphic, albeit cut short in the middle to make room for the Zeekr script and number plate recess. Pull-type door handles are used here instead of flush pop-out ones, and the doors themselves can be closed at a touch of a button.

    On the inside, the dashboard is dominated by dual 16-inch, 3.5K OLED touchscreens, one of which is for the front passenger. There’s also a 13.02-inch digital instrument cluster and 44-inch augmented reality-enabled head-up display, with certain variants also getting a screen where a traditional rear-view mirror would be that shows the video feed from a rear camera.

    The toys don’t end there, as rear passengers have access to an eight-inch touchscreen to control comfort and accessibility functions. They also get a 17-inch, 3K OLED screen fitted to the ceiling, tray tables, a refrigerator and a 29-speaker Naim sound system with Dolby Atmos. Depending on the variant, the 8X gets either a single or dual Qualcomm 8295 chipset to handle all smart cockpit functions, including Zeekr’s latest AI Eva smart assistant.

    If that isn’t enough premium features, both front- and second-row seats are powered with heating, ventilation and massage functions. The seats themselves can be trimmed in a combination of Nappa leather and Alcantara, while the cabin gets a suede headliner, wood veneer trim, crystal-like textured buttons and an ambient lighting system with 16.8 million colour options.

    G-ASD (Geely Afari Smart Driving), which is Geely’s newest intelligent driving system, is here too, powered by Nvidia Drive Thor-U chips that is linked to a suite of sensors, including a roof-mounted LiDAR that is standard across the range.

    As you’d expect, a comprehensive list of ADAS functions are available, including all-speed adaptive cruise control, active lane change assist, automatic parking assist, remote parking, autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning and assist, blind spot monitoring, front and rear cross traffic alert as well as Navigation Zeekr Pilot (NZP) that allows for Level 3 self-driving (you still need to keep your hands on the capactive steering wheel).

    Pricing for the 8X starts from 356,800 yuan (about RM207k) and goes all the way up to 426,800 yuan (RM248k) across the Max, Ultra and Ultra+ variants. There’s also a very fancy Dawn variant at 500,800 yuan (RM290k), but we’ll get to that later.

    The first three variants mentioned can be had with either five or six seats, the latter making the 8X a three-row SUV. Additionally, the entire line-up receives a 900-volt PHEV architecture that supports 6C fast charging and come with a nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery.

    Also identical for the Max, Ultra and Ultra+ is a dual-motor setup rated at 897 PS (885 hp or 660 kW) and 935 Nm of torque, which is good for a 0-100 km/h time of 3.7 seconds and top speed of 220 km/h.

    The engineportion of the system is a 2.0 litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine making 279 PS (275 hp or 205 kW), and this is used for feed either a 55- or 70-kWh battery. With the smaller battery, the WLTP range when running on pure electricity is up to 257 km (320 km CLTC), while the WLTP combined hybrid driving range is up to 1,152 km (1,362 km CLTC).

    Go with the larger battery and the EV-only range goes up to 328 km (WLTP; 410 km CLTC) and so too does the combined hybrid range to 1,205 km (WLTP; 1,416 km CLTC). The added features on the Ultra and Ultra+ do see a reduction to these figures, albeit by a very small amount (about or less than five km). For charging, Zeekr lists nine minutes for the battery to get from 20-80% using a DC input.

    2026 Zeekr 8X on display in Beijing – 2.0T PHEV with up to 1,400 PS, 1,205 km WLTP hybrid; from RM207k

    A 60-kW vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and six-kW vehicle-to-load (V2L) system comes standard, as does dual-chamber air suspension with a continuous control damping (CCD) system that is either single- or dual-valved.

    The top-spec Dawn is unique from the rest of the line-up as it gets an even sportier exterior featuring a more aggressive front bumper, side rocker panels and a rear diffuser element, all accentuated by black accents.

    It’s not purely aesthetics though, as the Dawn is billed as the most capable version of the 8X with off-road-focused features such as water wading sensors and even infrared night vision.

    2026 Zeekr 8X on display in Beijing – 2.0T PHEV with up to 1,400 PS, 1,205 km WLTP hybrid; from RM207k

    By far the most impressive thing about the Dawn is its tri-motor setup (two motors at the rear and one at the front) that serves up an eye-watering 1,400 PS (1,381 hp or 1,030 kW) and 1,410 Nm. With these figures, the 0-100 km/h sprint time is slashed to 2.96 seconds and the top speed is bumped up to 230 km/h.

    The 70-kWh battery and 2.0 litre turbo engine are the same with lesser variants, and the EV-only range is 268 km while the combined hybrid range is just 1,037 km. The Dawn also gets forged wheels and Brembo brakes with six-piston calipers, both of which are not offered, even as an option, for other variants.

    It isn’t known if Zeekr Malaysia plans to bring in the 8X, as the model only recently went on sale in China and availability in markets outside China hasn’t been confirmed, at least for our part of the world. Would you be interested?

     
  • Geely Galaxy Light 2nd Generation Concept makes world debut in Beijing, previews flagship sedan – E9?

    Geely Galaxy Light 2nd Generation Concept makes world debut in Beijing, previews flagship sedan – E9?

    The Geely Galaxy Light 2nd Generation Concept has made its world debut at the ongoing Auto China 2026 in Beijing. As its name suggests, it’s a sequel to the first Galaxy Light concept from 2023, and it previews a flagship model from the brand. Something along Hongqi lines, perhaps?

    It’s been toned down quite a bit from the original concept, with a more production-ready waterfall grille, less insane wheels (if you think they’re outlandish, you should see the original’s) and at least there are door mirrors and door handles now!

    The overall profile has also evolved from the previous Porsche-like low nose, fastback shape and upswept shoulder line to a much more upright and stately three-box sedan bodystyle. You can really picture high-ranking Chinese officials travelling around in this.

    Geely Galaxy Light 2nd Generation Concept makes world debut in Beijing, previews flagship sedan – E9?

    Phrases used in the press release include “sophisticated luxury”, “Chinese Design, Global Aesthetics”, “majestic and sophisticated beauty”, “flagship-class grandeur”, and “tiger raising its head” – China has every right to be unabashedly confident in this era.

    What has carried over from the 2023 concept are the suicide doors (although the front doors don’t appear to be able to swing upwards Lambo-style anymore), and the interior still looks fanciful, with bright LED strips along the door cards and a four-seat layout. Of course it “draws inspiration from the morning light over Hangzhou’s West Lake”.

    You’ll find wood, crystal, natural materials and multi-zone climate control, as well as “Chinese Chair” seating, a “Rippling Collection” centre console, auspicious “Jiwen” patterns and my personal favourite – a “Three Pools Mirroring the Moon” audio system, which sounds positively ear-gasmic. If the Galaxy E8/Starshine 8 is currently Geely’s most atas sedan, could this become a Galaxy E9/Starshine 9 one day?

     
  • Chery Tiggo V debuts in Beijing – seven-seater SUV that can be reconfigured to a pick-up, in PHEV and ICE

    Chery Tiggo V debuts in Beijing – seven-seater SUV that can be reconfigured to a pick-up, in PHEV and ICE

    Chery has taken the wraps off its Chery Tiggo V at Auto China 2026. The Tiggo V is essentially the production version of the T1TP concept that was unveiled at the 2025 Chery International User Summit in Wuhu, China, last October.

    Tagged by the automaker as the “first transformable, versatile family SUV in the Tiggo lineup,” the Tiggo V stays faithful to the direction of the study shown last year, presenting a multi-purpose vehicle capable of providing a multitude of solutions through a configurable interior and flexible seating.

    Underpinned by a unibody platform, unlike the ladder-frame-based Himla double-cab pick-up truck, the Tiggo V is a seven-seater SUV (or MPV, as the company suggests) in its standard guise, but it can be reconfigured to become a pick-up or a load-focused carrier in what are just a couple of the six distinct configurations available for it. This covers 99% of the permutations for the family-based mobility direction the automaker is adopting.

    Chery Tiggo V debuts in Beijing – seven-seater SUV that can be reconfigured to a pick-up, in PHEV and ICE

    On the T1TP, it was indicated that the cargo and interior layout offered a 600 litre cargo bed, featuring four anchor points and four partitions to secure payloads of varying sizes. Adjustable dividers provide a movable intermediate gate between the second row of seats and the cargo bed, enabling longer items to fit by extending into the passenger cabin. A detachable rear body shell makes the switch from an SUV to a pick-up quickly.

    Design-wise, the Tiggo V doesn’t veer far from the study, with most of the styling cues translating over, although the show vehicle wears a slightly less rugged-looking wheel design compared to the T1TP. As for the specifications, only a little information was divulged with the official debut of the vehicle earlier.

    No mention of dimensions beyond a 2,800 mm-long wheelbase and a 1,297 mm interior height, which is a slight increase from the 1,284 mm quoted for the T1TP – the ample height is aimed at making cabin ingress and egress and movement within easier for occupants.

    No powertrain details either, but the automaker’s Chery Super Hybrid tech will feature strongly, along with the more traditional petrol route, as it was revealed that the Tiggo V will eventually go on sale in PHEV and ICE forms, with a 6.0 litre/100 km fuel consumption mentioned for the PHEV and a 7.84 litre/100 km FC quoted for the ICE version.

    Ground clearance is 220 mm for the SUV, but both versions will have a different water wading depth capability, in this case 700 mm for the PHEV and 650 mm for the petrol unit. In keeping with its multi-purpose nature, the Tiggo V is geared for more than simple recreational use, with an ability to tackle terrain gradients of up to 30%.

    Will the Tiggo V come our way? Nothing has been ventured yet, but the idea of a large capacity SUV that can double up as a pick-up should sound appealing to those who want such versatility. What do you think, would the Tiggo V be a suitable addition to our market?

    GALLERY: Chery T1TP concept at 2025 Chery International User Summit, Wuhu

     
  • MG S5 EV CKD launched in Malaysia – more powerful 205 PS/350 Nm motor, 62 kWh, 446 km WLTP; RM117k

    MG S5 EV CKD launched in Malaysia – more powerful 205 PS/350 Nm motor, 62 kWh, 446 km WLTP; RM117k

    The locally assembled (CKD) MG S5 EV is now officially launched in Malaysia, and the made-in-Pegoh, Melaka electric crossover is sold in a sole Lux variant priced at RM117,528 on-the-road without insurance in Peninsular Malaysia.

    This is the SAIC brand’s first model to be locally assembled in Malaysia, and first rolled off the production line from EPMB Plant 2 in Pegoh, Melaka last month.

    The transition from CBU to CKD sees the MG S5 EV get an uprated electric powertrain, which now outputs 151 kW (205 PS) and 350 Nm from the same single-motor RWD configuration, bringing gains of 35 PS and 100 Nm from the 170 PS/250 Nm motor of the CBU version that was launched in May 2025.

    2026 MG S5 EV CKD pricing and specifications in Malaysia – click to enlarge

    As the sole Lux specification, the locally assembled S5 EV continues to have a 62 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack that enables up to 446 km of range on the WLTP standard, according to MG Motor Malaysia. Fast charging for the Lux continues to be supported at up to 150 kW DC, which brings a 10-80% charge in approximately 26 minutes.

    Key comfort and convenience features in the CKD MG S5 EV include full leatherette seats (leather-fabric combo in the CBU), power-adjustable front passenger seat (manual in the CBU), and a hands-free powered tailgate (also present on the CBU).

    For safety and driving assistance systems, the CKD MG S5 EV gets the full complement as featured in the fully imported version, which means seven airbags, and ADAS Level 2.5 functions.

    2025 MG S5 EV in Malaysia, CBU

    Therefore, the ADAS suite here continues to include adaptive cruise control, AEB, blind spot detection, rear cross traffic alert, door opening warning, drowsiness monitoring system, emergency lane keeping, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, intelligent headlamp control, lane keep assist, rear collision warning, and traffic jam assist. Also on are the tyre pressure monitoring system, ISOFIX child seat anchors and a tyre repair kit.

    Three exterior colours are offered for the CKD MG S5 EV, and these are Grey, Silver and Gold. The locally assembled MG S5 EV is covered by a seven-year, 150,000 km vehicle warranty, along with an eight-year, 180,000 km battery pack warranty and an eight-year, 160,000 km drive motor control unit warranty.

    GALLERY: MG S5 EV CKD line-off

    GALLERY: MG S5 EV Lux, CBU

     
  • Geely Galaxy Starshine 6 in Beijing – PHEV version of Emgrand; next Proton S70, future Proton eMas sedan?

    Geely Galaxy Starshine 6 in Beijing – PHEV version of Emgrand; next Proton S70, future Proton eMas sedan?

    The car pictured here on Geely’s Auto China 2026 stand is a Geely Galaxy Starshine 6 EF (e-fuel; methanol-powered version) – but forget about its propulsion method for the purposes of this story, because you could be looking at the next-gen Proton S70 (in ICE Emgrand form, which looks very slightly different) and a future Proton eMas sedan.

    Proton CEO Li Chunrong intimated to us at the show that this is a “potential model”, adding credibility to our earlier beliefs. On the Proton side, it appears likely that a non-turbo S70 (Saga engine) could carry on with the old body to serve as a Persona replacement, while the turbo S70 (X50 engine) would migrate to the latest Emgrand.

    On the Proton eMas side, when the Starshine 6 PHEV came out in September, we already speculated that it could form the base for a future eMas sedan, and its showing here gives us a closer look at what to expect.

    In PHEV form, the Starshine 6 features P1 and P3 electric motors, the latter being a 163 PS/210 Nm traction motor. Both motors are integrated into an 11-to-1 one-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT) that’s mated to a 111 PS/136 Nm 1.5 litre naturally-aspirated BHE15PFI four-cylinder engine. The engine has a thermal efficiency of 47.26% – we’ll see if this figure translates to Proton eMas when the time comes.

    Geely Galaxy Starshine 6 in Beijing – PHEV version of Emgrand; next Proton S70, future Proton eMas sedan?

    Other numbers include 2.8-2.9 litres per 100 km CLTC, 8.5 kWh (60 km EV range) or 17 kWh (125 km EV range) LFP batteries, 35 kW DC charging (30-80% in 20 minutes) and 3.3 kW AC. Top speed is 180 km/h.

    Length, width, height and wheelbase are respectively 4,806 (-9), 1,886 (+1), 1,490 (-10) and 2,756 mm (+1) – millimetre deviations from the latest Emgrand in brackets. You can see how similar they are dimensionally. It’s very comfortably in the C segment, being larger than the Civic.

    But multi-link rear suspension is the C segment norm, and both the Emgrand and this Starshine 6 use a torsion beam. Still, the space-saving setup means that the boot is vast – a cavernous 609 litres.

    Design wise, the Starshine 6 has an AMG-esque face while the Emgrand has a more Volvo look, thanks to different grilles and front bumpers. The sharp headlamps are shared, as are the general shape, side profile and tail – only the tail lamp signatures differ slightly.

    Geely Galaxy Starshine 6 in Beijing – PHEV version of Emgrand; next Proton S70, future Proton eMas sedan?

    Inside, the Starshine 6 continues to share plenty with the Emgrand, including a dashboard with pill-shaped air vents and a wide centre console with dual phone holders and a 50-watt Qi wireless charger. There’s also the same 10.2-inch digital instrument display and 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, both running on the latest Flyme Auto operating system.

    The main difference is that the PHEV ditches the stubby crystalline gear selector for a steering column-mounted stalk, while the row of physical controls below the touchscreen has been replaced by a Proton eMas 7-style multifunction knob on the centre console.

    Elsewhere, the Starshine 6’s generous dimensions are claimed to free up class-leading passenger space, with 970 mm of front headroom, 65 mm of rear knee room and 1,480 mm of rear elbow room. The nine-layer ‘marshmallow’ front seats offer optional power adjustment, heating and ventilation, but no massage. Standard are Level 2 semi-autonomy and six airbags.

    If this comes to pass, it would be the first time a model is being shared between Proton and Proton eMas, with the only main difference being their powertrains. Excited?

    Geely Galaxy Starshine 6 EF at Auto China 2026

    Geely Galaxy Starshine 6 PHEV official images

    2026 Geely Emgrand official photos

     
  • 2026 Zeekr 009 facelift debuts in Beijing – new 900V system, swivel seats; up to 925 PS, 740 km CLTC

    2026 Zeekr 009 facelift debuts in Beijing – new 900V system, swivel seats; up to 925 PS, 740 km CLTC

    The Zeekr 009 has received its second update after the previous one that came about in July 2024. The revised electric MPV is making its debut at this year’s Auto China (also known as Auto Beijing), with pre-sales starting today – three variants will be offered to customers, although pricing will only be revealed at launch.

    There are two key areas where the 009 sees significant improvements, none of them involving the way the MPV looks. That’s not to say the new 009 is a carbon copy of the old one, as you’ll notice the front bumper has slightly revised profile, in and around the corner sections where the air curtains no longer have a horizontal chrome accent.

    This design change results in an extra eight mm being added to the overall length of 5,217 mm, with other dimensions like width (2,024 mm), height (1,812 mm) and wheelbase (3,205 mm) all preserved.

    2026 Zeekr 009 facelift debuts in Beijing – new 900V system, swivel seats; up to 925 PS, 740 km CLTC

    With the exterior out of the way, let’s focus on the first significant improvement done to the 009: its powertrain. New for the MPV is a 900-volt electrical architecture, which is an upgrade over the previous 800-volt system, itself an upgrade from the 400-volt system the 009 originally debuted with.

    Only fitted to Ultra+ variants, which come with either six or seven seats, the 900-volt system enables the 115-kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery to get from 10-80% in just 10 minutes. Fully charged, the CLTC-rated range is up to 720 km.

    With the 900-volt system, more powerful electric motors could be fitted to the 009. The dual-motor, all-wheel drive setup in the Ultra+ now pack 925 PS (912 hp or 680 kW) and 913 Nm of torque. For context, the outgoing AWD version of the 009 served up 789 PS (778 hp or 580 kW) and 810 Nm.

    2026 Zeekr 009 facelift debuts in Beijing – new 900V system, swivel seats; up to 925 PS, 740 km CLTC

    Despite the added grunt, the 0-100 km/h time is unchanged at 3.9 seconds, and the top speed is lower at 220 km/h (previously 230 km/h). As before, Zeekr’s dual-chamber air suspension with continuous control damping (CCD) system is fitted to the 009, with the Ultra+ variants getting the latter with a dual-valve system that can react even quicker than before.

    A single-valve CCD system with air suspension is what the base Ultra gets, with this variant being a seven-seater that doesn’t get the 900-volt system, but instead stays with an 800-volt one. Other things carried over include a NMC battery with an energy capacity of 108 kWh as well as a front electric motor (introduced in 2024) with 421 PS (416 hp or 310 kW) and 440 Nm of torque.

    No change to the 0-100 km/h time of 6.9 seconds and CLTC range of 740 km either, although the top speed is reduced to 220 km/h. We suspect the latter could be artificially limited as part of a safety initiative, like how Volvo caps its cars to 180 km/h. We should point out that our 009 in Malaysia is sold with a 400-volt system like in Hong Kong and some other right-hand drive markets.

    2026 Zeekr 009 facelift debuts in Beijing – new 900V system, swivel seats; up to 925 PS, 740 km CLTC

    The second significant improvement to the 009 is inside the vehicle. At first glance, it’s hard to see what the fuss is about aside from the more elegant, properly circular steering wheel and revised centre console that has a crystal dial for media controls. The latter is joined by switches for the heated windscreen and rear window, which means the gear selector is now a stalk on the steering column.

    However, Zeekr says it has added more premium features to ensure its offering remains the top choice among 75% of CEOs in China. As a start, the six-seat 009 now comes with second-row chairs that can swivel either 45, 90 or 180 degrees to enable even more flexible seating configurations – some modes will require the car to be stationary and not have any passengers in the frontmost seats.

    Also new is the Naim sound system with 31 speakers and up to 3,868 watts of power that is finely tuned by “golden ear masters” to ensure the best aural experience one can get. This is complemented by Zeekr OS 7 that gains more AI functions and dual Snapdragon 8295 chips to power the infotainment, including the 17-inch, 3K OLED touchscreen aimed at rear passengers as well as the 10.25- and 16-inch units at the front.

    Other tech improvements include the adoption of G-ASD (Geely Afari Smart Driving), which is Geely’s newest intelligent driving system. On the 009, there are 31 sensors plus a LiDAR (now standard across the range) that is linked to Nvidia’s Thor-U chip capable of 700 TOPS.

    The ADAS functions are mostly familiar, although some now come with an improvement operational range. All-speed adaptive cruise control, active lane change assist, automatic parking assist, remote parking assist, forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring and more are just some of the functions.

    2026 Zeekr 009 at Auto China

    2026 Zeekr 009

     
  • Leapmotor Lafa 5 Ultra makes global debut in China – B05 Euro-style hot hatch, ‘pure RWD fun’, 0-100 5.9s

    Leapmotor Lafa 5 Ultra makes global debut in China – B05 Euro-style hot hatch, ‘pure RWD fun’, 0-100 5.9s

    Ni hao from Auto China 2026, which is hosted by Beijing this year. Expect to see plenty of huge and luxurious electrified SUVs (PHEVs and REEVs are the trend these days) from the show, but here’s a rare treat for the car enthusiast. Yes, it’s an EV, but of a different kind, one that’s not typical from a Chinese brand.

    Say hello to the Leapmotor Lafa 5 Ultra, an electric hot hatch and the sporty version of the Lafa 5, which is a Euro-style C-segment hatchback. Think the Volkswagen Golf and its GTI/R versions. The Lafa 5 was designed to be a global model with an eye on Europe, and the Ultra should eventually make its way abroad too.

    Compared to the regular Lafa 5, which adopts the B05 name outside of China, the Ultra sits 10 mm lower at 1,510 mm. Leapmotor is keen to highlight the five-door hatchback’s generous 1,880 mm width. Overall length is 4,490 mm. For context, a VW Golf MK8 is 4,284 mm long, 1,789 mm wide and 1,456 mm tall.

    Leapmotor Lafa 5 Ultra makes global debut in China – B05 Euro-style hot hatch, ‘pure RWD fun’, 0-100 5.9s

    If the Lafa 5 has a Euro-feel to it, then the Ultra follows the more subtle style of the continent’s hot hatches. Like VW’s GTI or R, the Ultra is sportier than the regular Lafa 5, but in a subtle way – it’s not super aggressive or OTT, which one might expect from a Chinese OEM. Sporty cues include a front lip, side skirts, a double-wing rear spoiler and a rear bumper with diffuser – all these are painted in gloss black.

    Also exclusive to the Ultra are blacked out badging (curiously, there’s no exterior ‘Ultra’ badge) and 19-inch wheels with dark grey calipers. The cars on stage in Beijing are wearing Hankook iON evo EV-specific tyres in a 225/45 size. Three colours are available – Thunder Flash Yellow, Starry Green and Liquid Silver.

    Also ‘just enough’ is the Ultra’s performance. It’s easy for an EV to post mega power and 0-100 km/h acceleration numbers that were previously reserved for supercars, and China’s EVs have disrupted those metrics. So, it’s very refreshing to see a Chinese car with sensible figures and a focus on handling instead. Leapmotor calls the Ultra’s 245 PS (180 kW) a sweet spot, and with all of that going to the rear wheels, 0-100 km/h is a brisk enough 5.9 seconds.

    Car enthusiasts will also like the sound of the ‘Sino-Euro engineered chassis’ that delivers ‘pure RWD fun’. The Lafa 5 Ultra has perfect 50:50 weight distribution, reinforced front and rear anti-roll bars as well as upgraded dampers versus the regular B05. Leapmotor claims a similar moose test speed to the Tesla Model 3, but with faster steering response and a smaller yaw response lag time.

    Sticking to the same benchmark, the Lafa 5 Ultra also posts higher max cornering g (0.97 g) and shorter 100-0 km/h braking distance (36.01 metres) compared to the Tesla. Contributing to the grip cause are the above-mentioned Hankook tyres.

    Rounding up the Ultra package is the interior. The fully-dark cabin (Windchaser Grey is the name of the colour) has plenty of suede-like surfaces on top of the Lafa 5’s class-leading soft-touch material coverage area. Compared to European C-segment hatchbacks, it’s a spacious car for rear passengers.

    Leapmotor Lafa 5 Ultra makes global debut in China – B05 Euro-style hot hatch, ‘pure RWD fun’, 0-100 5.9s

    Sporty upgrades aside, the Ultra retains the Lafa 5’s generous kit list, which includes front seats with eight massage points, heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. As usual, domestic market cars come with roof-mounted LIDAR and blue lights that indicate autonomous driving – these items will most probably be omitted for overseas markets.

    Two variants are available – the 500 Ultra with 500 km of CLTC range and the 600 Ultra with 600 km of CLTC range, which is optimistic compared to real-world driving. Expect WLTP figures of around 400 and 500 km respectively.

    The price of the Lafa 5 Ultra in China is 123,800 yuan for the 500 and 129,800 yuan for the 600, which translates to RM71,912 and RM75,393 respectively. At the show, Leapmotor announced a special early bird price of 118,800 yuan (RM68,992) for the 500 and 124,800 (RM72,476) for the 600.

    Sounds like amazing value, but for me, the Lafa 5 Ultra surprises more in its restrained approach to performance and subtle-sporty looks. What do you think of the Leapmotor Lafa 5 Ultra a.k.a B05 Ultra, and the idea of an EV hot hatch in general?

    GALLERY: Leapmotor Lafa 5 Ultra at Auto China 2026

     
  • Geely Eva Cab unveiled in Beijing – China’s first purpose-built robotaxi prototype, Level 4 autonomy

    Geely Eva Cab unveiled in Beijing – China’s first purpose-built robotaxi prototype, Level 4 autonomy

    Ni hao from Auto China 2026 in Beijing! Geely has just unveiled its Eva Cab, a robotaxi prototype that the company says is China’s first purpose-built one. Unlike others converted from existing production cars, this was specifically engineered from the ground up for driverless commercial operation.

    The Eva Cab is really one for the techies, because it features full-domain AI that powers Geely’s G-ASD 4.0 intelligent driving platform (co-developed with tech partner Afari), which in turn enables Level 4 autonomy.

    Pilot robotaxi operations have already been conducted for over a year in cities like Hangzhou and Suzhou, in collaboration with Geely’s CaoCao Mobility subsidiary. A ‘CaoCao Mobility’ customized edition of the Eva Cab is set to be launched in 2027.

    Geely Eva Cab unveiled in Beijing – China’s first purpose-built robotaxi prototype, Level 4 autonomy

    Geely says the car has the industry’s most powerful in-vehicle computing platform, integrating the NVIDIA SuperChip, NVIDIA Thor U, and Qualcomm Snapdragon 8397 to yield over 3,000 TOPS of computing power.

    It also says the Eva Cab has the world’s first ‘Quantum-Level AI Electronic and Electrical Architecture’, the world’s first 2,160-line digital LiDAR system and the industry’s first mass-production-ready Level 4 assisted driving software solution. We get it – it’s a very, very intelligent car.

    The vehicle itself features electric sliding doors, a face-to-face cabin layout, a ‘Galaxy Skyroof’ ceiling, ‘Drifting Galaxy’ door panels and ‘Orchid Pavilion and Meandering Streams’ armrests – that’s China for you.

     
  • Metzeler Sportec 01, 01 RS sports bike tyres released

    Metzeler Sportec 01, 01 RS sports bike tyres released

    Two new tyres from Metzeler, the Metzeler Sportec 01 and Sportec 01 RS, developed from the German firm’s efforts in road racing. Focusing on efforts in tis campaign in the Isle of Man TT (Tourist Trophy) in particular, Metzeler’s new sportsbike tyres share a common design base but are intended for two different types of riders.

    The Sportec 01 is meant for the rider who needs a versatile sports tyre, with a mix of good dry and wet weather performance. Meanwhile, the Sportec 01 RS is purely for the rider wanting the best in dry road grip, especially for track use, with precise steering and handling.

    As can be surmised, the Sportec 01 is meant to be fitted to supersport, naked and sport-oriented crossover bikes travelling on wisty roads and mountain passes with an eye to everyday riding. Experienced riders will want the Sportec 01 RS for their supersport, high-performance naked and hypernaked bikes, with track day riding in mind.

    Both tyres feature a unified tread pattern design for front and rear, ensuring consistent motorcycle behaviour under braking and acceleration. The tread of Sportec 01 has been completely redesigned and evolved compared to the previous generation, with which it still shares the design inspired by the Greek letter phi, while the Sportec 01 RS tread pattern features more slick area and a compact pattern.

    A high silica dual-compound construction is used for the tread, with the front tyre coming with a base layer made from full silica and covering both the tread band and the shoulders while the rear tyre has a base layer is made of carbon black and used only on the shoulders, offering fast warm-up, high grip and consistent feedback.

     
  • P-P number plate series draws over 6,000 bidders: JPJ

    P-P number plate series draws over 6,000 bidders: JPJ

    The P-P number plate series has drawn more than 6,000 bidders through the JPJ eBid online system since bidding for the series opened on Monday, the road transport department (JPJ) has announced.

    “Several top numbers have also seen intense competition, while popular numbers remain a firm favourite among bidders,” JPJ director-general Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli said in a statement. The P-P number plate series was launched by JPJ to celebrate the department’s 80th anniversary, with the five day period having commenced on April 20, and concludes today, April 24. Bidding results will be out Saturday, April 25.

    According to the JPJ director-general, bidding started from RM20,000 for principal numbers, RM5,000 for premium numbers, RM2,500 for attractive numbers, RM500 for popular numbers and RM300 for regular numbers.

    JPJ’s previous anniversary was marked by the A-A number plate series, which collected over RM24 million in total. A9A was the highest-bid number at RM902,020, followed by A11A (RM703,007), A8A (RM700,000), A7A (RM502,000) and A2A (RM490,888). The numbers with the most bidders were A51A (40), A101A (31), A8118A (29), A1881A (27) and A19A (27).

     
  • Foton Tunland V7, V9 pick-up trucks coming to Malaysia – 2.0T diesel mild-hybrid, from RM129k est

    Foton Tunland V7, V9 pick-up trucks coming to Malaysia – 2.0T diesel mild-hybrid, from RM129k est

    Foton Tunland V9

    The Foton Tunland V Series range of pick-up trucks is set to enter the Malaysian market with the Tunland V7 and Tunland V9, and these are claimed to be the first hybrid turbodiesel pick-up trucks in Malaysia when they make their market debut next month.

    If the name seems familiar, it has appeared on a pick-up truck model from 2012 that would make its way to the Malaysian market, albeit renamed the Bison Savanna for its Malaysian market introduction in 2013.

    Handal BCM is the exclusive importer and assembler of Foton products in Malaysia, and the company has been given approval for the importation and local assembly (CKD) of the upcoming Tunland V7 and Tunland V9 pick-up trucks. The initial batch will be fully imported (CBU) units which are expected to arrive in Malaysia in mid-May, while local assembly will begin in Q4 2026 in Johor, said the company.

    Foton Tunland V7, V9 pick-up trucks coming to Malaysia – 2.0T diesel mild-hybrid, from RM129k est

    Foton Tunland V9

    In Malaysia, the Tunland models are estimated to be priced from RM128,888 for the Tunland V7, to RM148,888 for the Tunland V9, with warranty coverage of seven years or 200,000 km. Both are powered by a 2.0 litre mild-hybrid turbodiesel engine, paired with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, with six drive modes offered, according to the company.

    Foton claims a fuel consumption of between 8.0 to 10.0 litres per 100 km, which brings fuel range of up to 950 km per tank. Both models are rated for a 3.5-tonne towing capacity and a one-tonne payload, and are claimed to offer the largest cargo tray in their class with a black spray-on cargo tray liner.

    Foton Tunland V7, V9 pick-up trucks coming to Malaysia – 2.0T diesel mild-hybrid, from RM129k est

    Foton Tunland V7

    The Tunland V9 gets multi-link coil spring rear suspension for comfort and stability, while the Tunland V7 gets a leaf spring arrangement that is more typical of the pick-up truck segment. Rolling stock for both the Tunland V7 and V9 are 18-inch alloy wheels shod in all-terrain tyres.

    Based on the brochure for the V series double-cab range for the South African market, both the V7 and V9 have identical exterior dimensions, at 5,617 mm long, 2,090 mm wide and 1,955 mm tall with a wheelbase of 3,355 mm. Cargo bay dimensions are identical too, at 1,577 mm by 1,650 mm by 530 mm; ditto ground clearance, at 240 mm for both models.

    The South African market models – which the incoming Malaysian market models are likely to follow in terms of powertrain – get a Aucan 2.0 litre turbodiesel with 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance, producing 120 kW (163 PS) and 450 Nm. Fuel tank capacity for both models is 76 litres.

    Foton Tunland V7, V9 pick-up trucks coming to Malaysia – 2.0T diesel mild-hybrid, from RM129k est

    Foton Tunland V7

    Both the Tunland V7 and V9 will come to Malaysia with Level 2+ ADAS and a 360-degree camera suite, according to Handal BCM.

    Referencing the South African market, both models get forward collision warning, lane departure warning, pedestrian collision warning and drowsy driving monitoring. The higher-spec V9 adds AEB, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, lane centring control, traffic sign recognition, traffic jam assist and intelligent cruise assist.

    For the Malaysian market, the Foton Tunland V9 and V7 mild-hybrid turbodiesel pick-up trucks are set for launch next month, and these will come to market initially as fully imported (CBU) units before local assembly (CKD) commences in Johor in the fourth quarter of this year.

     
 
 
 

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