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Latest Stories

• GWM Tank 300 HEV launching in Malaysia soon – other upcoming models include B-SUV, luxury C-SUV

  In Cars, GWM, Local News / by Jonathan James Tan / 31 March 2026 8:22 pm

  

  GWM Malaysia has announced in a release that the GWM Tank 300 HEV will be launching in Malaysia soon, and throughout 2026 and 2027, upcoming models include two B-SUVs, two C-SUVs and “a future luxury C-SUV”. Now, GWM has one of the most extensive range of high-riders in the business, so it’s really difficult to play Sherlock here, but we’ll try.

  Let’s look at the most immediate comer first. The Tank 300 HEV’s hybrid system involves a 2.0 litre turbo engine and a nine-speed hybrid automatic transmission. Total output? 347 PS and 648 Nm of torque, which blows our ICE car’s 220 PS/380 Nm into the weeds. Four-wheel drive plus front and rear locking diffs help you when the going gets tough.

  Next, we’ll look at the B-segment – the Jolion immediately comes to mind, but things have gone quiet on that front for a long while. A lot more likely is the Ora 5, which recently launched in Thailand, where it’s available in EV and HEV versions – dive deep via the respective links.

  

  

  

  On to C. Given the success of the Haval H6 HEV in Malaysia, it would be very reasonable to deem the PHEV version as the logical next step. But more realistic would be the Haval Raptor (a.k.a. Menglong) – we saw this in a glass box at last year’s Gaikindo show in Hi4 PHEV form. It’s a mini H9, if you will, but it’s unibody where the H9 is body-on-frame. Think of it as a more ‘urban’ H9.

  Then we have the “luxury C-SUV”. GWM’s Wey luxury brand has a model called the Wey 03, which used to be known as the Wey Coffee 02 in Europe and which was born as the Wey Latte in China. In its latest form, the Wey 03 is a PHEV that packs 442 PS/685 Nm, a 5.3-second 0-100 km/h time, a 136-km WLTP EV-only range, a 35.43 kWh battery, 50 kW DC and 11 kW AC charging.

  The Wey 03 combines a 2.0 litre turbo engine with an electric motor at the front and another electric motor at the rear. All four wheels are driven through a nine-speed wet DCT. What are your thoughts, and are there any other possibilities within the GWM universe you can think of?

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• MITI says there’s no ban on CBU pick-up trucks like BYD Shark, GWM Cannon coming into M’sia, but…

  In Local News / by Danny Tan / 31 March 2026 7:45 pm

  

  BYD Shark in Malaysia – click to enlarge

  Minister of investment, trade and industry Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani today issued a statement to clear the air on topics that have gone viral in auto and business circles, mainly about BYD reportedly reconsidering its investment in a CKD plant in Tanjung Malim due to unfavourable conditions.

  You can read more into that topic here, but the MITI minister’s statement also included a clarification on the supposed ban on the importation of new pick-up trucks, with two models namechecked – the BYD Shark and the GWM Cannon.

  It wasn’t mentioned by MITI, but the JAC T9 is also a CBU China pick-up truck – launched a year ago, the T9 is available in fully-electric or diesel forms, with a petrol plug-in hybrid coming soon. JAC Motors has made known plans for Malaysia to be its CKD and export hub for ASEAN.

  

  Click to enlarge

  On “claims that MITI banned the importation of new pick-up truck models/brands (eg. BYD Shark, GWM Cannon) while allowing existing ones” the statement said that “there is no ban on the importation of new pick-up truck models” and “there is no announcement from MITI to ban the importation of new brand pick-ups into Malaysia”.

  That’s that, right? No ban on CBU trucks. Yes, but that’s not all MITI said. The statement added that “commercial vehicles including pick-up trucks are subject to CKD localisation requirements” and that “CBU imports are permitted with limited quota under the Market Research Pre-Assembly (MRA) Approved Permit quota”.

  Two things to note here. One is the MRA AP, which is basically pre-CKD bridging. Here, a limited amount of APs are issued to a company to import a small batch of a model to test the market, so to speak. This applies to the case of the GWM Cannon, of which a 66-unit first batch was announced in August 2023. The truck was first previewed in May that same year. We haven’t heard much about the Cannon since.

  

  

  GWM Cannon in Malaysia – click to enlarge

  The second thing to note should be the main point of this pick-up truck statement – commercial vehicles including pick-up trucks are subject to CKD localisation requirements. So, ideally, after a company tests the market with a small batch of CBUs, it should proceed to CKD as the next step – note the ‘pre-assembly’ in the MRA’s full name.

  So, CBU imports of pick-up trucks are allowed via MRA APs, which means that technically, MITI is correct when it says that there’s no CBU pick-up truck ban in place. However, there will never be meaningful CBU imports of trucks beyond a small initial batch, and OEMs will likely find that to be not worth the effort. Practically, for the car companies and car buyers, it’s as good as ‘no CBU trucks’.

  Why don’t they just CKD then? Malaysia is not a very big market for pick-up trucks, certain much smaller than Thailand, which builds compact trucks for domestic consumption as well as exports to markets across the globe. With a global pick-up truck production hub next door, it’s likely that OEMs will just head there for this bodystyle. Duplicating production for a small market (now even smaller, with unsubsidised diesel prices at current levels) might not make sense.

  

  The Toyota Hilux BEV, a CBU Thai import, is launching soon here

  Also, it does seem like this rule is in place for new brands/models, as popular trucks in our market such as the Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi Triton, Isuzu D-Max and Nissan Navara are all CBU imports from Thailand.

  Among the long-standing incumbents (approvals would have been issued a long time ago), only the Toyota Hilux is locally assembled. Set to be launched here very soon, the Hilux BEV – the EV version of the latest Hilux ‘Travo’ generation – will be coming in as a CBU import from Thailand, which is the model’s global production base.

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• 2026 Isuzu D-Max in Malaysia – 2.2L turbodiesel, 8-speed auto, updated styling; RM103k-RM163k OTR

  In Cars, Isuzu, Local News / by Mick Chan / 31 March 2026 7:25 pm

  

  The 2026 Isuzu D-Max line-up in Malaysia has been launched today, with the RZ4F-TC 2.2 litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine replacing the RZ4E-TC 1.9 litre unit. This powers the majority of variants in the 2026 D-Max line-up, alongside the 4JJ3-TCX 3.0L four-cylinder turbodiesel that continues in the range for the single cab and double cab X-Terrain variants.

  The 2026 Isuzu D-Max line-up in Malaysia, at a glance (prices are on-the-road without insurance for individual private registration in Peninsular Malaysia):

  X-Terrain:

  • 3.0L 4×4 AT X-Terrain – RM162,938.40

  Premium:

  • 2.2L 4×4 AT Premium – RM141,821.20
  • 3.0L 4×4 AT Premium – RM145,138,40

  

  Standard:

  • 2.2L 4×4 AT Standard – RM122,171.20
  • 2.2L 4×4 MT Standard – RM114,171.20

  Plus:

  • 2.2L 4×2 Auto Plus – RM114,671.20

  Single Cab:

  • 2.2L 4×4 AT Single Cab – RM109,121.20
  • 2.2L 4×4 MT Single Cab – RM103,121.20
  • 3.0L 4×4 MT Single Cab – RM108,888.40

  

  Displacing 2,164 cc, the RZ4F-TC 2.2 litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine is rated to produce 63 PS at 3,600 rpm and 400 Nm of torque from 1,600 rpm to 2,400 rpm, or 13 PS and 50 Nm more than the outputs of the 1.9 litre unit it replaces.

  This engine brings a new block, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons and connecting rods, as well as a new turbocharger and high-pressure, 250 MPa fuel injection system. Isuzu claims a 10.7% improvement in extra-urban fuel consumption, and a 56% improvement in off-the-line response courtesy of 255 Nm available from 1,000 rpm, or more than half the peak torque on offer.

  Equipped with a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), diesel particulate diffuser (DPD) and intelligent exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), Isuzu claims a reduction of emissions by 21%, and particulate emissions by up to 99%, and the engine is capable of running on biodiesel blends of up to B20.

  

  

  Partnering the new 2.2 litre turbodiesel engine is a new eight-speed automatic transmission co-developed with Aisin, for improved acceleration and fuel efficiency. This is by quicker shift mapping, while the first six ratios are selected for response, and seventh and eighth are overdrive ratios for fuel efficiency. The transmission also offers increased durability and the ability to handle more torque, says Isuzu.

  Along with the powertrain update for the D-Max is what’s claimed to be the first automatic transmission-equipped single-cab pick-up truck model, priced as above at RM109,121.20 OTR without insurance.

  This single-cab variant offers a cargo bed measuring 2,345 mm x 1,590 mm x 465 mm, with a payload capacity of 935 kg. Updated for the 2026 D-Max Single-Cab is the addition of a Rough Terrain mode, new centre console with armrest, body coloured bumper, and a new exterior paint colour, Mercury Silver metallic.

  

  

  

  

  Visual updates for the 2026 D-Max range are modest, but nonetheless include a new design for the grille, headlamps, and foglamps (except on the Single Cab MT), while the rear gets a new tail lamp cluster, and the tailgate assist is now standard across the board, now added to the Standard automatic and manual transmission variants.

  Wheels are 18-inch alloys on 265/60R18 tyres for the X-Terrain (matte dark grey wheel finish) and Premium (two-tone machined finish), 17-inch alloys on 265/65R17 tyres for the Standard and Auto Plus variants, and 16-inch wheels on 205R16C tyres for the Single Cab variants.

  Revisions to the interior of the 2026 D-Max for Malaysia include a 10-inch infotainment unit for the X-Terrain, Premium and Auto Plus variants, while the Standard AT and MT get a seven-inch infotainment unit. A new door insert design is found on the X-Terrain and Premium variants, while a new seat upholstery pattern is leather on the X-Terrain and Premium, and fabric on the Auto Plus and Standard AT/MT variants.

  Most variants of the 2026 Isuzu D-Max in Malaysia are sold with a 150,000 km, five-year warranty, save for the X-Terrain flagship that gets a seven-year, unlimited mileage warranty. All variants of the 2026 D-Max in Malaysia come with a 20,000 km, two-year free periodic maintenance service package.

  2026 Isuzu D-Max 2.2L 4×4 AT Premium in Malaysia

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  
  

  2026 Isuzu D-Max in Malaysia; presentation slides

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

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• Tour bus operators say price hike unavoidable due to diesel increase, no SKDS – rental rates have shot up

  In Local News, Public Transport / by Anthony Lim / 31 March 2026 5:17 pm

  

  Van and tour bus businesses, which are not covered by the targeted diesel subsidy scheme that was introduced in June 2024, are set to be further affected by rising diesel prices, with rental prices for these vehicles reportedly increasing by up to 80% per cent due to rising operating costs, the New Straits Times reports.

  Industry players said the increase was not only being driven by higher diesel prices, but also rising maintenance and spare parts costs. According to Malaysian Tourist Guides Council president Jimmy Leong, operators could no longer absorb the additional costs and had to pass them on to customers.

  He said that tour buses and vans being excluded from the subsidised diesel control system (SKDS) programme, unlike public transport and goods vehicles, meant an increase was unavoidable. “This directly raises operating costs for industry players,” he said, but added that operators were striving to maintain services despite the challenges.

  

  Meanwhile, Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) president Nigel Wong said that the increase could impact the tourism sector. “Higher prices may reduce demand, particularly among budget travellers,” he said, adding that the situation could affect preparations for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).

  The SKDS 2.0 scheme began in March 2024 with five petroleum companies for nine vehicle types, and the list of vehicles eligible for subsidised diesel under this scheme was then expanded to a total of 33 vehicle types. Express, stage, mini and school buses are covered by the diesel subsidy programme.

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• Jaecoo J8 facelift in China – badged Chery Tiggo 9, gains massive touchscreen, 261 PS 2.0T 4-cylinder

  In Cars, Chery, International News, Omoda Jaecoo / by Jonathan Lee / 31 March 2026 3:37 pm

  

  Launched in Malaysia just last year, the Jaecoo J8 is set to get a massive facelift ahead of the Auto China show in Beijing next month. Except it won’t be badged as a Jaecoo – instead, it will be known as the Chery Tiggo 9, as it has been for the past three years.

  This car is not to be confused with the Tiggo 9 that we’ll be getting, which is offered in China as the Tiggo 9X (also, bizarrely, as the Tiggo 8L). Anyway, it gets a new front fascia with a more upright rectangular grille, the latter featuring more ornate vertical slats.

  This is flanked by larger headlights with dual-L daytime running lights, as well as being framed by a black surround that reaches outwards towards the bumper corners, similar to the Tiggo Cross. Chrome accents help give the car a more upscale air.

  

  At the rear, you’ll find thicker full-width taillights that push the number plate recess into the bumper, with the large Chery script taking its place. Finishing off the look are larger (and likely still fake) trapezoidal exhaust tips and a new multi-spoke wheel design.

  Chery hasn’t provided any official interior images, but Autohome has already shot plenty of photos, revealing a mostly new cabin. Gone is the Mercedes-Benz-aping dashboard, replaced by a minimalist design that takes after many a Chinese SUV, with slimmer and sleeker air vents and a tall centre console continuing to house twin phone holders (one of which is still a Qi wireless charger) and open (previously lidded) twin cupholders.

  The big news is that the freestanding widescreen display panel has been ditched. There’s still a large instrument display, but the infotainment touchscreen is now a massive single piece that extends to the passenger side, allowing the other front occupant to watch videos and the like. This is similar to what is found on the Mazda CX-6e.

  

  Also fitted is a new two-spoke steering wheel from the Omoda C7, plus threaded connectors for attaching accessories such as a phone holder, similar to the latest Proton X50. The seats are also now quilted, and the front passenger pew has become a “queen seat” with a built-in ottoman and a one-touch “zero gravity” recline function. As before, the Tiggo 9 is available with two or three rows of seats, with a maximum of seven.

  Autohome also reports that the car’s 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine has been retuned to produce 261 PS and 400 Nm of torque, up from 249 PS and 385 Nm. The J8’s eight-speed automatic transmission and choice of front- or all-wheel drive should also be carried over.

  Given Jaecoo’s traditionally long lead times for bringing new models into Malaysia, expect the facelifted J8 to come next year at the earliest. It also remains to be seen whether the massive display will be brought over, as there has been instances of cars that had such screens in China (such as the GWM Wey G9) being shipped without them for exports.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

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• MITI issues statement on BYD CKD topic – open to all Chinese brands, floor price is RM100k, not RM200k

  In BYD, Cars, Local News / by Anthony Lim / 31 March 2026 2:40 pm

  

  Over the weekend, a news report indicated that the ministry of investment, trade and industry (MITI) had imposed terms on BYD for its CKD local assembly plans, terms that the Chinese conglomerate could not agree to.

  According to the report, it is understood that the requirement as set by MITI would involve BYD exporting as much as 80% of the cars produced in Tanjung Malim, with the remaining 20% of production to be vehicles priced at above RM200,000 per unit.

  As you would expect, the topic has been hot news, creating various discussions on the web and social media. Given the lack of details on the matter, much has been left to speculation and filling up the gaps with whatever conjecture possible.

  In response to the claims and confusion circulating on social media regarding MITI’s conditions for BYD’s manufacturing license, as well as other related automotive policies, the ministry has issued a press statement to explain the matter.

  

  

  The following is the ministry’s statement in verbatim (with one typo correction and date format adjustment as per our house-style), with the salient points of address left as tables in the images, for easier reading:

  MITI REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABLE AUTOMOTIVE GROWTH; CLARIFIES INVESTMENT AND SECTOR POLICIES

  Malaysia is grateful for the confidence that BYD and other global EV manufacturers have shown in our country. The decision by investors to establish operations at KLK TechPark in Tanjong Malim is a significant vote of confidence in Malaysia’s industrial ecosystem and long-term growth potential. It is Malaysia’s genuine desire to welcome world-class manufacturers including BYD, not only for vehicle assembly but to participate across the full automotive value chain, from component manufacturing and R&D through to logistics and after-sales, as we develop into a comprehensive and globally competitive automotive hub.

  Notwithstanding the above, our national automakers, Proton-Geely and Perodua-Daihatsu, together account for over 63% of local vehicle sales and support an ecosystem of more than 700,000 employees, contributing approximately 4% of Malaysia’s GDP annually. The depth of their localisation is not incidental; it is the result of decades of deliberate investment. Perodua-Daihatsu maintains a localisation rate of over 75% on its mainstream models and Proton-Geely at 76% in 2025.

  In the case of Proton-Geely, they have developed 18 new technologies through its localisation programme including joint ventures in fuel pumps, electronic gearshift modules and CVT transmissions. Together, Proton and Perodua have channelled billions into the Malaysian vendor ecosystem, supporting thousands of SMEs, skilled employees, and communities across the country. This is the industrial standard we are working to replicate.

  In response to a number of claims and confusion circulating on social media regarding MITI’s conditions for BYD’s Manufacturing License and related automotive policies, we wish to clarify this in the tables below:

  

  Click to enlarge.

  Malaysia also wishes to reaffirm that it remains genuinely open to Chinese automotive investment. As at December 2025, out of 34 foreign automotive brands in the market, 14 are Chinese brands including BYD, Chery, Jaecoo, Jetour, Haval, Wey, MG and Volvo. BYD itself was granted an interim Manufacturing License on September 29, 2025. Chery Automobile Co. Ltd was also granted a Manufacturing License by MITI on June 26, 2025, making it another Chinese automaker to receive formal approval to manufacture vehicles locally.

  These approvals demonstrate that our policy framework is not a barrier to entry, it is a framework for meaningful, high-value participation from foreign investors. MITI further wishes to emphasise that these policies are developmental in nature, transitioning Malaysia towards advanced manufacturing.

  Under the National Automotive Policy 2020 and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030, our declared goal is to become a regional production and export hub for Next Generation Vehicles. We have over 592 specialised automotive vendors, and a skilled technical workforce to support world-class EV manufacturing. Malaysia stands ready to partner with manufacturers who come here not only to serve our domestic market, but to build for the world and our policy framework is designed precisely to enable and accelerate that ambition.

  Malaysia has a long and proven track record as a destination for high-quality foreign automotive investment. The TechPark and the surrounding Automotive High-Tech Valley form an established industrial corridor with a deep network of suppliers, engineering talent, and infrastructure purpose-built for next-generation vehicle production.

  

  Click to enlarge.

  Global names including Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, and Stellantis (Peugeot) have chosen Malaysia as their regional assembly base, and most recently, Chery Automobile Co. Ltd has commenced construction of its manufacturing plant at the Beringin High-Tech Automotive Valley under the same framework conditions, further affirming international confidence in Malaysia as a serious EV manufacturing destination.

  Malaysia’s location at the heart of ASEAN provides access to a regional market of over 600 million consumers, extended further by 17 free trade agreements that open global markets to vehicles assembled here. Our workforce is technically capable, English-speaking, and experienced in precision manufacturing. Our regulatory environment, while demanding on standards, is stable, transparent, and consistently applied. For manufacturers serious about a long-term, export-oriented presence in Southeast Asia, Malaysia remains one of the most compelling destinations in the region.

  Malaysia remains open for any potential investors and businesses coming into Malaysia. We invite all global automotive manufacturers including Chinese brands, to grow with us, not only as a market but as a manufacturing and export base. Our policies are not about closing doors, they are about ensuring that every investment creates deep local value, technology transfer and sustainable jobs. We look forward to working with partners who share that vision.

  Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry
  March 31, 2026

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• 2026 BMW iX3 L unveiled for China – will this long-wheelbase car undercut the standard WB in Malaysia?

  In BMW, Cars, International News / by Jonathan James Tan / 31 March 2026 2:29 pm

  

  Here’s our first look at the China-produced 2026 BMW iX3 Long Wheelbase, based on the Neue Klasse-era NA5 which is built in Hungary. Will it be cheaper than the standard-wheelbase car in Malaysia, since China-made EVs get a 5% import duty versus the standard 30%? Case in point – our Germany-made standard-wheelbase iX1 costs RM250k while our China-made iX1 L goes for an estimated RM255k – and the estimated price will almost always be higher than the final price.

  We’re really getting ahead of ourselves, aren’t we – shall we look at the car first? This guy’s wheelbase has been lengthened by 108 mm to 3,005 mm. No other dimensions have been released yet, but the standard-wheelbase (2,897 mm) car is 4,782 mm long, 1,895 mm wide and 1,635 mm tall.

  Other changes? Unlike the standard-wheelbase car, the iX3 L’s got pull-up door handles (instead of the ones China has banned – hidden/pop-out/flush/aerodynamic/retractable; whatever you want to call ’em) that you see on many current BMWs. The iX350L tailgate badge is likely to be a China-only thing, while the roof spoiler has a new centrally-mounted camera.

  

  

  

  Crucially, this thing’s a lot techier – if that word exists. What’s expected, according to Car News China, is Huawei HarmonyOS Next, Alibaba and DeepSeek AI models, Amap 3D navigation and Momenta all-scenario ADAS – all of which are tailored to China.

  Underneath, it’s pure NA5 iX3 – 800V, two motors, a combined 469 PS and 645 Nm of torque, 108.7 kWh (net) NMC battery, 400 kW DC charging (10-80% in 21 minutes) and vehicle-to-load (V2L). The CLTC range is 900 km – a bit shorter than the standard-wheelbase car’s 805 km WLTP.

  Finally, as the standard-wheelbase car has a 4.9-second 0-100 km/h time, this panjang guy should be in the fives, although we see no reason why it shouldn’t also max out at 210 km/h. We’ll see more of the iX3 L at the upcoming Beijing show. Learn more about the NA5 BMW iX3 here.

  

  

  

  

  
  

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• 2026 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0 i-S EyeSight previewed in Malaysia – CBU Japan, NA boxer four; under RM190k

  In Cars, Local News, Subaru / by Mick Chan / 31 March 2026 1:19 pm

  

  Making a surprise preview appearance on Malaysian shores is the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek, which arrives in 2.0i EyeSight guise. This will be a fully imported (CBU) model from Japan and it is expected to be priced under RM190k when it officially goes on sale in May this year.

  Previously known as the XV, and succeeding the previous-generation facelift that was officially launched in Malaysia in December 2021 continues to be essentially a lifted Impreza hatchback, with SUV styling elements such as the black plastic cladding on its wheel arches and bumpers.

  Little is officially known for the Malaysian-spec example for the time being, though given its model variant designation, the 2.0i EyeSight is presented as specified with the manufacturer’s 2.0 litre naturally-aspirated, boxer four-cylinder engine paired with the brand’s signature symmetrical AWD, along with the EyeSight suite of driving assistance systems.

  Built on an updated version of the Subaru Global Platform (SGP), the third-generation car grows 15 mm to be 4,480 mm long, becoming 40 mm lower to 1,575 mm, while its 1,800 mm width and 2,670 mm wheelbase dimensions are unchanged; ground clearance is 200 mm.

  

  

  

  

  Its powertrain can be expected to a carryover of the FB20D direct-injection unit that has served in the previous-generation facelift, where it produced 156 PS at 6,000 rpm and 196 Nm at 4,000 rpm, driving all four wheels through a Lineartronic CVT and the aforementioned symmetrical all-wheel-drive.

  The third-generation model – which succeeds the second-generation XV – wears revised styling on a familiar shape, starting with a chrome strip on the grille that joins the LED DRLs of each headlight. The hexagonal grille is visually more imposing than that of its predecessor, and C-shaped styling elements feature throughout, such as on the bumper corners, the headlamps’ DRLs, and tail lamp elements.

  Up top, the roof rails on the Crosstrek are more square-edged than the items on the second-generation XV, while rolling stock on this example photographed here are 225/55R18 tyres on 18-inch units of the turbine-style, two-tone finish as seen on the GIIAS 2024 show unit in Indonesia and the mild-hybrid in Japan.

  Dashboard architecture for the Crosstrek draws from the WRX/Levorg in much of its layout. A pair of analog dials flank the central multi-information display, while the centre infotainment unit is vertically oriented, with vertical air-conditioning vents on each of its sides. As such, the smaller display located atop the main infotainment display in the second-generation XV is no longer present here.

  

  

  

  

  Hardware connectivity in the Crosstrek comes courtesy of a 3.5 mm auxiliary audio input, with a 3.0 A USB-C port and a 2.4 A USB-A port as well as a Qi wireless device charging pad, plus a 12-volt power socket for the front occupants. Second row occupants get a 3.0 A USB-C port and a 2.4 A USB-A port. For smartphone pairing, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay can be expected here.

  The rear seats are 60:40 split-folding, with ISOFIX child seat anchors located on the outer rear seats. Beneath the boot floor is a space saver temporary spare tyre measuring 185/65R17.

  As its variant name indicates, the Crosstrek gets the EyeSight suite of driving assistance systems, including autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane centring assist, evasive steering assist, reverse AEB and a camera-based driver attention monitor.

  The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek is expected to go on sale in Malaysia in May this year, to come in under the RM190k mark. This will be a fully imported (CBU) unit, in line with the brand’s direction towards a full CBU Japan product line-up for Malaysia from 2025. What do you think of Subaru’s incoming crossover for Malaysia?

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

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• 2026 Denza D9 in China – all-new interior, up to 800 km CLTC range, 1,500 kW DC charging, 9 mins full charge

  In Cars, Denza, International News / by Jonathan Lee / 31 March 2026 12:50 pm

  

  We reported last month that the Denza D9 was set to gain a 2026 model year update in China, some four years after it debuted in the Middle Kingdom (and a year after it was launched in Malaysia). Well, the refresh is finally upon us and surprise, surprise – it’s much more comprehensive than we thought.

  Not that you’d be able to tell from the outside, where the luxury MPV looks practically identical to before. Both the electric and plug-in hybrid versions now get the same grille treatment with rows of flag-shaped inserts – previously, the EV had full-height vertical strips. There are also a new range of polished and two-tone multi-spoke wheel designs, all still measuring a modest 18 inches in diameter.

  Where the D9 has taken a true step up is on the inside, where you’ll find an all-new, much more upscale interior. A redesigned two-spoke flat-bottomed steering wheel sits ahead of a cleaner horizontal dashboard design that still houses a 10.25-inch instrument display and a 15.6-inch “floating” infotainment touchscreen.

  

  The passenger touchscreen, only available in China, has also been upgraded; initially presented in a widescreen configuration, users can flip down the dash panel to reveal the full 15.6-inch display. Elsewhere, there are now twin vertical air vents at the corners of the dashboard and sleeker rectangular centre vents.

  Meanwhile, the flying buttress centre console now houses twin Qi wireless chargers (just the one previously) and what appear to be physical air-con controls (hooray!). To free up space for all these items, the crystal gear selector has been ditched in favour of a column-mounted shifter that’s all the rage in China these days.

  The second-row still gets towkay-spec “Air Spa” captain’s chairs with built-in ottomans, control touchscreens and a one-touch “zero gravity” reclining function. However, there’s now a 17.3-inch ceiling-mounted monitor, finally addressing a major omission on the outgoing model. The previous headrest-mounted screens – again a China exclusive – have also been upgraded to 13-inch magnetic units.

  

  

  Perhaps the biggest change is to the mechanicals. Details remain light, but Autohome reports that the electric D9 will feature uprated motors – even the front-wheel-drive version makes a stout 462 PS (340 kW), up from 313 PS (230 kW) before. The all-wheel-drive variant adds a 95 PS (70 kW) rear motor for a total output of 557 PS (410 kW), an increase of 244 PS (135 kW).

  The D9 also gains BYD’s second-generation Blade LFP battery, with a minor capacity bump from 103 kWh to 115 kWh. This results in a boost in range to 800 km on China’s lenient CLTC cycle for the FWD version and 750 km with AWD. Expect WLTP figures closer to 680 km and 640 km respectively, which would still be a big improvement over the current figures of 520 km and 480 km respectively.

  Even more significant is the sharp increase in DC fast charging power, with the new battery enabling BYD’s Flash Charging technology at a stonking 1,500 kW. That’s a world away from the previous maximum of 200 kW (our D9 can only do 166 kW), and that means it can charge from 10 to 70% (ready to drive, in BYD’s terms) in just five minutes, and from 10 to 97% (full charge) in nine minutes.

  

  

  The PHEV variant continues to utilise a 156 PS 1.5 litre turbo four-cylinder mated to a 272 PS (200 kW) front motor and a 61 PS (45 kW) rear motor. The Blade LFP battery has been enlarged from 40 kWh to 66.5 kWh, doubling the CLTC-rated pure electric range to 401 km (which should equate to a WLTP figure of around 330 km). It too supports Flash Charging, although likely nowhere near as powerful.

  The D9 continues to feature DiSus-C adaptive dampers and comes with BYD’s God’s Eye B (DiPilot 300) suite of driver assists, the latter enabling highly-automated city and highway driving and automated lane changes. Prices in China range from 389,800 yuan (RM227,700) to 489,800 yuan (RM286,200) for both EV and PHEV versions.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

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• KPDN foils attempt to divert 800L of diesel in Johor – lorry had two pumps and ‘intermediate bulk container’

  In Local News / by Danny Tan / 31 March 2026 11:17 am

  

  The big difference in price between subsidised fuel in Malaysia and the market price of fuel elsewhere, especially in the present Iran war situation, makes smuggling even more lucrative. When the returns are high, the risk of getting caught might seem more ‘worth it’.

  Here’s the latest case. Yesterday, the ministry of domestic trade and cost of living (KPDN) foiled an attempt to divert 800 litres of diesel in an operation at a petrol station near the Pasir Gudang Highway in Johor.

  Johor KPDN director Lilis Saslinda Pornomo said in a statement that its enforcement patrol unit detected a suspicious lorry and acted to detain and inspect the vehicle.

  The team then found that the lorry had been modified with two pump units that were connected directly from the vehicle’s original tank to an additional ‘intermediate bulk container’ tank in the storage area, Bernama reported. The extra tank is believed to contain about 800 litres of diesel.

  Lilis Saslinda said the lorry driver failed to produce valid documents including a special permit for storing or purchasing diesel, and his statement has been taken for investigation. The total value of the diesel seized is estimated to be RM20,716 and the case is being investigated under the Control of Supplies Act 1961.

  KPDN’s Ops Tiris 3.0, conducted between January 1, 2024 and March 27, 2026 as a crackdown on petrol and diesel smuggling, saw over RM32 million worth of petrol and diesel seized, and 667 individuals arrested. There will be more, so KPDN is installing more CCTVs at high risk locations to stop the theft.

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• No compromise on drivers under influence: prison, proposed compensation for victim’s families – Loke

  In Local News, Safety / by Anthony Lim / 31 March 2026 11:06 am

  

  The transport ministry is drafting a proposal for amendments to the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333) to require those convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs to pay compensation to victims’ families, Bernama reports.

  This was indicated by transport minister Anthony Loke following a fatal crash in Klang on Sunday, April 29, in which a car overtaking recklessly at high speed collided with a motorcycle coming in the opposite direction on Jalan Raya Barat. The motorcyclist was killed on the spot in the incident, which was caught on a vehicle dashcam.

  The driver of the car, who was reportedly driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, has been remanded for four days to facilitate investigation under Section 44(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 and Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.

  Loke said the compensation would be in addition to prison sentences meted out under Act 333. In a statement, he said this was in line with the ministry’s uncompromising stance against drink-driving, which endangers other road users. “This loss is heartbreaking, and such incidents not only claim innocent lives, but are also a form of criminal negligence that is completely unacceptable,” he said about the incident.

  

  He said amendments to Act 333 were passed in the Dewan Rakyat and came into force in October 2020, providing for heavier penalties against offenders. Under Section 44 of the Act, any individual who drives under the influence of alcohol or drugs and causes death may, upon conviction, face imprisonment of not less than 10 years and not more than 15 years, as well as a fine of between RM50,000 and RM100,000.

  For repeat offences, the penalty is more severe — imprisonment of not less than 15 years and not more than 20 years, along with a fine ranging from RM100,000 to RM150,000.

  “As such, MOT urges PDRM to expedite a thorough investigation into yesterday’s accident so that the investigation paper can be referred to the attorney general’s chambers for prosecution, and hopes the court will impose the heaviest possible sentence if the offender is found guilty,” he said in his statement.

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• CCTV to curb RON95 leakage at high-risk petrol stations, especially near national borders – KPDN

  In Local News / by Mick Chan / 31 March 2026 10:38 am

  

  The ministry of domestic trade and cost of living (KPDN) will install closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras at petrol stations identified as high-risk locations for the misappropriation of subsidised RON 95 petrol, reported Bernama.

  This is aimed at more effective monitoring, as camera footage would be sent directly to the ministry’s enforcement control centre and state offices, said KPDN enforcement director-general Datuk Azman Adam. The pilot phase of CCTV installation was being carried out in stages in collaboration with industry players, particularly in hotspots including states on borders with neighbouring countries.

  “This year we will begin to adopt this technology more intensively to ensure that issues of leakage and misappropriation can be addressed more effectively,” Azman told the news outlet in an interview recently.

  Among the modus operandi used by syndicates for the misappropriation of subsidised RON 95 petrol were repeated purchases at petrol stations and the use of modified vehicles fitted with additional tanks, he said.

  

  The ministry of domestic trade and cost of living is taking steps to closely monitor point-of-sale data, and to record retail trends at petrol stations, Azman said.

  “If there are anomalies or unusual buying patterns that do not match the local demographics, for example, a sudden surge in RON95 purchases at remote stations, the system will trigger a red flag, and auditing and tactical teams will be immediately deployed to the location,” he said.

  Integrated operations are also carried out periodically, especially around border areas and locations identified as hotspots for fuel misappropriation, he continued. “This approach aims to ensure stricter monitoring and close any gaps for syndicates to carry out smuggling activities,” he said.

  Yesterday, KPDN announced that the use of foreign credit and debit cards for RON 95 petrol purchases at petrol stations nationwide will start being restricted in stages beginning from this Wednesday, April 1, 2026.

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• East Coast Expressway LPT1 flood mitigation works to be carried out from April 1, KM116-KM117 eastbound

  In Local News / by Mick Chan / 31 March 2026 9:50 am

  

  A traffic management plan will be carried out from KM116 to KM117 on the East Coast Expressway (LPT1) eastbound “for the medium term” from tomorrow, April 1, in order to carry out Package 1A of a flood mitigation project, LPT1 operator AFA Prime has announced.

  Work on the project will be carried out in stages to ensure the safety of highway users as well as smooth traffic flow, the highway operator stated. Changes that can be expected on this stretch of the highway include changes in directions, merging of lanes, reduced speed limits in selected areas, and the likelihood of congestion during peak hours, it stated.

  The traffic management plan has undergone a comprehensive technical evaluation including a road safety audit and verification by independent consultants and engineers, it said. “This plan also takes into account risk mitigation aspects as part of long-term improvement measures, particularly in areas exposed to flood risks,” it continued.

  The flood mitigation project is aimed at not just meeting current needs, but also to strengthen the long-term safety and sustainability of highway infrastructure, said AFA Prime executive director Vijayaraj Govindarajoo.

  “We are committed to implementing this initiative in a planned and integrated manner to ensure highway users continue to experience smooth and comfortable journeys throughout the implementation period,” he said, reported Bernama.

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• TNB: ST AFA rate for April 2026 set at -0.47 sen/kWh

  In Local News / by Jonathan James Tan / 31 March 2026 9:45 am

  

  Tenaga Nasional (TNB) has announced that the Energy Commission’s (ST) Automatic Fuel Adjustment (AFA) has hit -0.47 sen per kWh in April, up from -2.15 in March 2026. April was previously forecasted to be -1.89, so this is quite an increase.

  You may have expected this seeing that Brent crude is now over US$110 (RM443) a barrel, but TNB primarily relies on coal and gas for electricity generation, and the high global fuel prices have not hit EV users hard yet. Looking at the three-month forecast above, the AFA is only projected to go into positive territory in July (+0.08 sen per kWh), bizarrely after a drop in June to -0.91.

  To recap, AFA replaces the previous Imbalance Cost Pass-Through (ICPT) and is automatically calculated as either a surcharge or discount of up to 3 sen/kWh depending on fuel prices – this is revised monthly, with any larger changes (beyond 3 sen) requiring cabinet approval.

  Introduced as part of TNB’s Electricity Tariff Restructuring that took effect from July 1, 2025, the AFA is one of five components or ‘charges’ used to calculate your electricity bill:

  • Generation charge: 27.03 sen/kWh for total consumption of 1,500 kWh and below per month or 37.03 sen/kWh for total consumption more than 1,500 kWh per month. This covers the actual cost of generating electricity from power plants.
  • Capacity charge: 4.55 sen/kWh. This covers the cost of maintaining sufficient electricity supply capacity.
  • Network charge: 12.85 sen/kWh. This covers the cost of operating and maintaining the grid and the local network to deliver electricity.
  • Retail charge: RM10/month; waived for total consumption of 600 kWh and below a month. This is a fixed cost for metering, billing and customer service.
  • AFA rate: -0.47 sen/kWh for the month of April 2026; waived for total consumption of 600 kWh and below a month.

  You can use our TNB Bill Calculator tool to get a rough estimate on how much your electricity bill will be for the month. Essentially, if you use over 1,500 kWh a month, you add the generation, capacity and network charges (totalling 54.43 sen/kWh) to retail charge (RM10) and the AFA rate (-0.47 sen/kWh for April 2026; negative number, so it’s a discount).

  Alternatively, if your usage is below 1,500 kWh a month, it’s 44.43 sen/kWh plus the retail charge and AFA rate. For total consumption of 600 kWh and below a month, it would only be 44.43 sen/kWh – retail and AFA charges are waived.

  

  

  TNB Time of Use scheme tariff rate and off-peak discount; click to enlarge

  Here’s a list of the monthly AFA rates so far:

  • July 2025: 0.00 sen/kWh
  • August 2025: -1.45 sen/kWh
  • September 2025: -1.10 sen/kWh
  • October 2025: -6.50 sen/kWh
  • November 2025: -8.91 sen/kWh
  • December 2025: -6.42 sen/kWh
  • January 2026: -4.99 sen/kWh
  • February 2026: -2.77 sen/kWh
  • March 2026: -2.15 sen/kWh
  • April 2026: -0.47 sen/kWh

  Domestic consumers who use less than 1,000 kWh a month can enjoy a discount called ‘Insentif Cekap Tenaga’ or ‘Energy Efficiency Incentive’. The discount provided is relative to consumption (higher usage, lower incentive), with the maximum discount being 25 sen/kWh.

  Domestic users who have smart meters also have option to enter the Time of Use (ToU) scheme, allowing them to change their electricity usage patterns and take advantage of lower tariff rates during off-peak hours to enjoy savings on their monthly bill.

  The scheme has two time zones, with off-peak timings being from 10pm to 2pm from Monday to Friday and throughout the day (24 hours) for weekends. Peak hours are from 2pm to 10pm on weekdays. Here are the energy charges under this scheme:

  For usage of 1,500 kWh and below per month

  • Peak tariff: 28.52 sen per kWh
  • Off-peak tariff: 24.43 sen per kWh

  For usage above 1,500 kWh per month

  • Peak tariff: 38.52 sen per kWh
  • Off-peak tariff: 34.43 sen per kWh

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• JPJ clearing leftover FH plates on MySikap from Apr 1

  In Local News / by Danny Tan / 31 March 2026 9:38 am

  

  

  Click to enlarge

  Not every number has takers in the JPJ eBid auction – that’s how the rest of us get random ‘running numbers’ if we don’t pay for our pick. This applies to special or ‘rare’ plates as well, and the road transport department is offering the leftover numbers of the FH series from tomorrow, April 1.

  FH is the latest in a line of Putrajaya ‘F’ plates, open for bidding from February 1 to 5. Bids started at RM20,000 for prime numbers, RM5,000 for premium numbers, RM2,500 for attractive numbers, RM500 for popular numbers and RM300 for regular running numbers.

  Previously, remainder number plates can be browsed and bought at JPJ’s Putrajaya HQ or at state JPJ offices, but lately they’ve put it online on JPJ’s MySikap portal.

  

  

  Click to enlarge

  After you log in, head to the ‘kenderaan’ section and look for ‘tempahan nombor pendaftaran’. Then, select ‘nombor pendaftaran istimewa’ from the drop down menu and choose your series/number. You can pay via credit card or FPX and press ‘cetak’ for your receipt. Click on the graphics above for a clearer picture. The online sale starts tomorrow and it’s on a first come, first served basis.

  No mention of price, but previous clearance sales had ‘popular’ numbers at RM510 each inclusive of a service fee, or RM310 each for regular numbers.

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