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Volkswagen ID. Polo debuts – FWD hatchback with up to 211 PS, 105 kW DC charging, 454 km range WLTP

In Cars, International News, Volkswagen / by Mick Chan / 4 May 2026 12:41 pm

The battery-electric Volkswagen ID. Polo has made its official debut, and this is the first of four new battery-electric models the German brand will launch this year.

Based on the MEB+ platform, the ID. Polo measures 4,053 mm long, 1,816 mm wide and 1,530 mm tall with a wheelbase of 2,600 mm, Compared to the ICE-powered Polo, the ID. Polo gains 25% in luggage compartment volume from 351 litres to 441 litres, and with the rear seats folded, from 1,125 litres of the ICE Polo to 1,240 litres in the ID. Polo.

There are three variants of the ID. Polo at debut, with three motor outputs and two battery specifications. The range starts with the 37 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, which is paired with an 85 kW (116 PS) motor that enables a 0-100 km/h time of 11 seconds, and brings a WLTP-rated range of 315 km.

A step up in powertrain specification brings the 99 kW (135 PS) drive motor, enabling a 0-100 km/h time of 9.8 seconds, and longer battery range at 329 km WLTP. Both 116 PS and 135 PS versions with the 37 kWh battery can take up to 90 kW DC charging, which brings a 10-80% recharge in 23 minutes, while AC charging is up to 11 kW.

Topping the specifications table is the 155 kW (211 PS) drive motor variant, which propels the ID. Polo from 0-100 km/h in 7.4 seconds.

This is equipped with the 52 kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery specification, which brings up to 454 km of range on the WLTP standard, while DC charging is increased to 105 kW. Charging from 10-80% takes marginally longer at 24 minutes; for all variants, V2L power supply is supported at up to 3.6 kW.

Inside, the digital cockpit of the ID. Polo is comprised of a 10-inch driver’s instrument display and a 13-inch infotainment touchscreen display. The former offers a nod to nostalgia with the “retro display” that mimics the analog instrumentation found in the first-generation Golf, while an improved version of the ID. Light strip continues into the front doors and can warn of approaching vehicles before a door is opened.

Further optional equipment in the ID. Polo includes a 425-watt, 10-speaker audio systems by Harman Kardon, a panoramic glass sunroof, and 12-way electrically adjustable front seats with pneumatic massage function. Mobile phones can be charged wirelessly, while smartphone connectivity includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Front and rear lighting

Driving assist functions in the ID. Polo includes Connected Travel Assist, which brings the ability to react to traffic light signals, a category-first, according to Volkswagen. Assistance systems include side assist (lane-change assist), lane assist (lane keeping assist), adaptive cruise control, front parking distance control and front cross-traffic assist. One-pedal driving is available as standard.

The Volkswagen ID. Polo goes on sale in its native Germany, starting from 24,995 euros (RM115,847). A more powerful version in the form of the ID. Polo GTI will emerge later this year, with a 226 PS motor and will use the NMC battery.

Chassis

Drive system

Front-wheel drive

Premium sound system

Body structure

MEB+ with front-wheel drive

Park Assist Pro

Dimensions

Front-axle drive APP290 overview

Front-axle drive APP290 electric machine

Front-axle drive APP290 gearbox

Front-axle drive APP290 inverter

Drive system

Chassis

Body structure

Front and rear lighting

MEB+ battery system

MEB+ infotainment display

Connected Travel Assist

Drive and energy system

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Proton AMA02 production to begin in October, says supplier – Saga Cross A-segment SUV to rival Ativa

In Cars, Local News, Proton / by Jonathan Lee / 4 May 2026 12:24 pm

This just in – Proton’s next model on the Advanced Modular Architecture (AMA), the AMA02, is set to enter production in October this year. The news comes not from the national carmaker itself, but from long-term supplier Feytech Holdings that has recently signed an 84-month (seven-year) contract for leather seat covers for the car, worth RM96.83 million.

Not only that, but the firm also confirmed that the vehicle will take the form of a compact (read: A-segment) SUV widely tipped to rival the Perodua Ativa and Honda WR-V. It’s expected to bear the Saga Cross name, as part of an expansion of the Saga lineup beyond the evergreen budget sedan.

This will be a big deal for Proton as it will expand its SUV lineup downwards with a smaller, cheaper model – drawing on nearly a decade of experience building and selling crossovers. To save costs, it is expected to utilise the same powertrain as the four-door, this being a 120 PS/150 Nm BHE15PFI 1.5 litre i-GT naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine, mated to an Aisin four-speed automatic (no Punch CVT for this one).

Also expected is a hybrid system to help it compete with the Chery Tiggo Cross, dovetailing neatly with Geely recently launching new i-HEV models. The latter essentially uses the EM-i plug-in hybrid powertrain from the eMas 7 PHEV – including the electric motor and an 11-in-1 single-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT) – but with a smaller battery, eliminating the need for it to be charged at the mains.

With the engine – a version of that BHE15 NA mill already built locally – and hybrid components mostly shared with the eMas 7 PHEV, it makes sense for the AMA02/Saga Cross to receive this powertrain. This is especially true given Proton has announced that it would be assembling the hybrid bits in Malaysia, too. The car should get the DHT120 variant of the powertrain, the number likely corresponding to the electric motor’s power output in kilowatts (120 kW or 163 PS).

This is not the first time we’ve heard news of a Proton supplier signing a contract for the AMA02/Saga Cross. Earlier this year, MCE Holdings also confirmed it would be providing automotive electronics and mechatronic components for a new model, and while it did not name the car specifically, it did put down an August-to-October window for the start of production, as well as an identical 84-month contract duration.

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Malaysia’s fuel supply secure but finances continue to be strained to keep Budi95 at RM1.99 a litre – Anwar

In Local News, Malaysian Fuel Prices / by Jonathan James Tan / 4 May 2026 12:04 pm

Malaysian prime minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has said that the country’s fuel supply remains secure, although rising global fuel prices continue to strain the government’s finances as it works to keep Budi95 petrol at RM1.99 a litre, Bernama reports.

“So, fuel supply is assured, but prices are rising. This is not a problem originating from us, but from external factors. That is why we are compelled to face the challenge of rising fuel prices,” he said in his speech at the natural resources and environmental sustainability ministry‘s monthly assembly today.

Despite higher shipping and insurance costs brought about by the West Asian conflict, which are affecting fuel prices, Malaysia is still able to secure sufficient supply thanks to good relations with Iran, Russia, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, Anwar said.

“We are fortunate. Malaysia is among the ASEAN countries with a secure fuel supply. Malaysia still maintains RON 95 (petrol). We have only reduced the quota from 300 litres to 200 because we are burdened by the cost of subsidising petrol and diesel,” The Star quoted him as saying.

He added that Malaysia’s RM1.99-a-litre RON 95 petrol is among the world’s cheapest, beaten only by a few countries such as Brunei. “If (global) prices rise sharply, (government subsidies) could exceed RM6 billion a month. At current levels, it is about RM5 billion monthly – imagine, over 10 months, that is RM50 billion from government funds,” the prime minister said.

“I am using real-time data in Hormuz now. You can see the congestion there. The strait is narrow, making it difficult to ensure the safety of vessels, especially with pressure from the United States and Iran,” Anwar continued, adding that Malaysian vessels, including Petronas-operated ones, are among the many ships navigating the congested waters.

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Honda Malaysia announces 10-year hybrid battery and components warranty for e:HEV and i-DCD models

In Cars, Honda, Local News / by Gerard Lye / 4 May 2026 11:52 am

As part of its ongoing ‘Hybrid Done Right’ campaign, Honda Malaysia has announced that starting May 1, 2026, new e:HEV hybrid models sold in the country will come with a 10-year, unlimited-mileage hybrid battery and components warranty. This includes hybrid versions of the City, City Hatchback, HR-V, Civic and CR-V.

To further reinforce its commitment to hybrid technology, existing e:HEV as well as previous-generation i-DCD (Jazz, City and HR-V) customers will also benefit from the enhanced warranty.

To jog your memory, Honda Malaysia returned to the hybrid market in 2017 with the launch of the Jazz Hybrid, which debuted the Sport Hybrid i-DCD (Intelligent Dual-Clutch Drive) system. The newer e:HEV cars use the brand’s Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD) system, which first appeared here in the fifth-generation City.

The hybrid battery warranty for these e:HEV and i-DCD cars has now been extended from eight years to 10 years with unlimited mileage. Meanwhile, selected hybrid components are now covered by an extended warranty of up to ten years, up from the previous five years.

Additionally, Honda Malaysia is extending the hybrid battery and components warranty coverage to second-hand e:HEV and i-DCD owners. With this, subsequent owners remain eligible for coverage when ownership is transferred, valid up to the tenth year of the warranty period. With this initiative, the company is improving the ownership value for customers of its hybrid models by providing them with long-term benefits and peace of mind.

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MyDigital ID says log-ins to MyJPJ app have been smooth since sole sign-in route began on May 1

In Local News / by Anthony Lim / 4 May 2026 10:50 am

The start of MyDigital ID as the sole sign-in route for the MyJPJ mobile application finally began on May 1, and the transition has been carried out smoothly, with the system operating smoothly without any technical disruptions, according to MyDigital ID.

In a statement, it said that the platform remained stable and was functioning as planned. It added that some seven million MyJPJ users had registered and logged in using MyDigital ID, with the total number of MyDigital ID users reaching 12 million.

It said that the implementation of the system as a single sign-on (SSO) route would strengthen cybersecurity, as users only need to utilise one verified digital identity, based on official government records, to access public services. This, it added, reduces the reliance on multiple passwords, helping to curb the risk of account breaches, digital fraud and identity misuse.

MyDigital ID said it would continue to work closely with the road transport department (JPJ) and the national cyber security agency to ensure that the user experience is secure, fast and seamless. It reminded users to update both MyDigital ID and MyJPJ apps to the latest versions regularly to ensure continued security.

The implementation of the MyDigital ID as the SSO for MyJPJ was originally set to have begun on February 1. It was then extended to the start of March before being extended to May 1 to allow those who had not registered for it the chance to do so.

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2026 Mitsubishi Xforce sees 900 units delivered to customers in Malaysia within first month of launch

In Cars, Local News, Mitsubishi / by Gerard Lye / 4 May 2026 10:43 am

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has announced it has delivered 900 units of the Mitsubishi Xforce in April, the same month the B-segment was launched. At the time, the company revealed that it had collected 2,600 bookings prior to the model going on sale on April 8.

“We are truly grateful for the overwhelming response to the all-new Mitsubishi Xforce. Achieving 900 deliveries within the first month of launch is a strong testament to the confidence our customers have in the Mitsubishi brand and in this exciting new model,” said Takashi Sakamaki, CEO of MMM.

“To our customers, thank you for being among the first to embrace the Xforce and for your trust in us. Your support means a great deal to everyone at Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia. We remain committed to ensuring a smooth delivery experience while continuing to provide the quality, reliability, and driving confidence that define Mitsubishi vehicles,” he added.

The Xforce comes in Urban and Ultimate variants, both powered by a 4A91 1.5 litre naturally-aspirated MIVEC inline-four petrol engine rated at 105 PS and 141 Nm of torque. The Urban goes for RM109,980, while the range-topping Ultimate is RM10,000 more at RM119,980.

The latter gets more features than the base Urban, including selectable drive modes, a powered tailgate with hands-free function, an eight-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, blue ambient lighting, a wireless charging pad and the Dynamic Sound Yamaha Premium System with eight speakers and four unique sound profiles. The Ultimate is also the only one with an ADAS suite.

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Dongfeng MHero II shown in Beijing – 687 PS/848 Nm PHEV, larger than Range Rover, coming to Malaysia

In Cars, Dongfeng, International News / by Jonathan James Tan / 4 May 2026 10:34 am

You already know that the Dongfeng MHero II, Voyah Dream and 008 are coming to Malaysia, and that they’ll be shown publicly in the country for the first time at the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) in June. Let’s now take a look at the MHero II on the Auto China 2026 stand in Beijing.

MHero is to Dongfeng what Tank is to GWM, but the former’s products look a lot more post-apocalyptic. The original product was 2023’s MHero 917 (overseas name MHero 1). Then last year, a second model called the M817 (overseas name MHero 2 or MHero II) surfaced. We’ll just refer to it for now as the MHero II. Let’s just say the upcoming Denza B8 is not going to walk alone in Malaysia…

Looking considerably more toned-down and ‘urban’ than the MHero 917/MHero 1, the MHero II is 5,100 mm long, 1,998 mm wide, 1,899 mm tall (1,919 for the version with air suspension; this version also gives you rear‑wheel steering and a 150-mm adjustable suspension with continuous damping control) and has a 3,005 mm wheelbase.

Not a small car, but its PHEV system gives you 687 PS and 848 Nm of torque from a 186 PS 1.5 turbo engine, a 272 PS front electric motor and a 279 PS rear electric motor. 0-100 km/h is done in 5.2 seconds, the CLTC EV-only range is 215 km and the combined range is up to 1,365 km if you select the top-of-the-line 50.4 kWh CATL Freevoy battery. The boot can swallow 828 litres.

Other highlights include all-wheel drive with intelligent E-lock, a 900-mm wading depth, a 3.5-metre turning radius, nine drive modes (including mud, sand and rock), 256-colour ambient lighting, Dynaudio sound, 6 kW vehicle-to-load (V2L), a 15.6-inch touch-screen, a 10.25-inch instrument panel, a head-up display, a digital rear-view mirror and a five-litre centre console fridge.

But you gotta check out the blue car in the photos. Labelled the M817 Ultimate, this guy looks ready for the end of the world, with huge all-terrain tyres, industrial-looking side steps, chunky roof rails, roof spotlights, an uncovered outside spare tyre, a hairy-chested bonnet insert and a larger grille with ‘MHERO’ in block letters illuminated, over-lined by what looks like strobe lights.

The M817 Ultimate has an entirely new four-seat interior – the front seats have Lorinser-branded touch-screens neatly integrated into their backs, while the rear business-class seats have thick head pillows and are separated by a big centre console with controls.

Whether this ultra-lux Ultimate will reach our shores remains to be seen, but are you excited for this bigger-than-a-Range-Rover monster? Macho, boxy SUVs are hot these days, and this MHero II should lord above them all, rubbing shoulders with the GWM Tank 500. This big guy from Jetour also may be coming.

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Honda Civic e:HEV hatch gains RS with Prelude-style S+ Shift in Japan – simulated shifts, launching June

In Cars, Honda, International News / by Jonathan Lee / 4 May 2026 10:21 am

Honda is fleshing out its Civic e:HEV hybrid lineup in Japan with a new RS variant, joining the enthusiast-spec turbo petrol version (the latter, in case you were wondering, is available exclusively with a six-speed manual). The big news for this model, set to be launched in June, is the addition of the company’s novel S+ Shift technology, which only recently debuted on the Prelude.

This enables the driver to “row through the gears” through a simulated eight-speed gearbox, despite the car being directly driven by an electric motor and a single-speed transmission (the engine can, as before, clutch in to provide motive power at higher speeds). This is an extension of the Linear Shift Control already found on regular e:HEV models, which varies the engine speed to match throttle inputs – except now there are actual stepped “shifts”, as well as paddle shifters for better control.

Beyond this new feature, there are no reported changes to the powertrain, which continues to centre around an electric motor producing 184 PS and 315 Nm of torque. This is juiced by a 2.0 litre direct-injected four-cylinder engine with 141 PS at 6,000 rpm and 182 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm, and when clutched in it helps deliver a total system output of 203 PS.

Those of you keeping score will remember that this is the same exact setup found in the Prelude, now including the S+ Shift function too. That leaves the two-door body style and the trick Civic Type R-derived suspension and brakes to be the coupé’s only raisons d’etre, making that car’s steep premium over the regular Civic an even more bitter pill to swallow.

Just like on the petrol variant, the e:HEV RS gains sportier suspension tuning that “provides light and direct steering and a sense of unity with the vehicle’s behaviour,” with the difference being the addition of new 18-inch matte black alloy wheels from the US-market Civic Si. Inside, there are part-leather seats, red air-con vent accents and a new flat-bottomed steering wheel – again from the Prelude.

Closer to home, the Civic e:HEV in Malaysia is also offered in RS form (in fact, this is the only version you can currently get of the hybrid model), albeit in a sedan body style rather than Japan’s hatch. With the C-segment model expected to receive a mild update similar to the CR-V this year, could we be seeing the S+ Shift feature being offered here soon, too?

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Toyotsu Binter Malaysia appointed Dunlop distributor – new products, dealer network expansion planned

In Local News / by Gerard Lye / 4 May 2026 9:54 am

Dunlop is charting a new direction in Malaysia with the appointment of Toyotsu Binter Malaysia (TBM) as the tyre brand’s exclusive distributor here. Supported by improved nationwide accessibility, closer engagement with dealer and retail partners as well as the introduction of a refreshed product line-up, the brand is aiming to strengthen its position in the country.

This direction is further strengthened by Toyotsu Binter’s alignment with the wider network of Toyota Tsusho Corporation and close collaboration with Dunlop’s principal, Sumitomo Rubber Industries, which acquired the brand back in 2025.

“This marks the beginning of a new chapter for Dunlop in Malaysia. Our focus is on strengthening supply consistency, expanding dealer reach and ensuring Malaysian motorists benefit from Dunlop’s latest global tyre technologies, including products developed to support the shift towards electrified mobility,” said Marcus Lim, managing director of TBM.

The company is currently working with over 190 Dunlop authorised wholesalers, trade partners and direct dealers nationwide, with further expansion planned over the next two years to increase market coverage. It is also exploring opportunities to introduce specialist Dunlop retail concepts as part of its long-term network development strategy.

Strengthening Dunlop’s positioned across both the replacement and original equipment (OEM) segments in Malaysia is also part of TBM’s efforts to grow the brand’s presence. This includes original equipment fitment on selected models from Toyota, Lexus, Isuzu, Mazda and Leapmotor. At the recent Penang Autoshow, the company introduced the Blue Response TG passenger car tyre, which is one of a few models offered that are EV-ready.

Others include the Sport Maxx Lux, SP Sport Maxx 060+ and e.Sport Maxx, the last of which is set to be launched here soon. These models are engineered to address the demands of EVs and meet the trend of rising EV adoption in the country, with one in every 14 newly registered vehicles being fully electric.

“Dunlop’s engineering capabilities continue to support its partnerships with global vehicle manufacturers, and our OEM relationships reflect the confidence automakers place in Dunlop’s performance and reliability. This provides a strong foundation as we continue introducing products designed to meet evolving mobility needs in Malaysia and across Southeast Asia,” said Takehiko Asai, managing director of Sumitomo Rubber Industries ASEAN.

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Jaecoo J5 Hybrid, J7 Hybrid shown in China – SHS-H turbo, 224 PS, 295 Nm; J8 PHEV also on display

In Cars, International News, Omoda Jaecoo / by Jonathan Lee / 30 April 2026 8:55 pm

Jaecoo J5 Hybrid

Jaecoo has added a self-charging hybrid to its J5 and J7, utilising a version of the Chery Tiggo Cross Hybrid’s powertrain. These cars, recently launched in the UK and the Philippines, augment the J7 PHEV and offer an alternative for buyers who want an electrified model but balk at the thought of having to charge it.

Like the new Omoda C4 Hybrid, the J5 and J7 Hybrid bear the new (and slightly silly) Super Hybrid System – Hybrid (SHS-H) moniker. This differentiates it from the original Super Hybrid System in the J7 PHEV, which itself has been renamed the Super Hybrid System – Plug-in hybrid (SHS-P).

Shown at the recent Chery International Business Summit (IBS) in Wuhu – held at the sidelines of the ongoing Auto China show – the J5 and J7 Hybrid add a turbocharger to the Tiggo Cross’ 1.5 litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder petrol engine. This is the same mill found in the J7 PHEV, producing 143 PS and 215 Nm of torque and delivering a thermal efficiency of 44.5%.

Jaecoo J5 Hybrid

The ICE juices the same 204 PS/310 Nm electric motor and 1.82 kWh battery found in the Tiggo Cross, but with a more powerful engine clutching in to help drive the front wheels at higher speeds through a single-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT), total power rises to 224 PS – although oddly total torque actually drops to 295 Nm. The PHEV is still the champ, however, with a system output of 279 PS and 365 Nm.

So equipped, the J5 Hybrid sprints from zero to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds – more than two seconds quicker than the petrol J5 – on its way to a top speed of 175 km/h. Jaecoo claims a fuel efficiency figure of 18.9 km per litre (5.3 litres per 100 km) and a total range of 980 km thanks to a 51 litre fuel tank.

The J7 version has the same powertrain but is of course heavier, meaning that its century sprint is completed nearly half a second slower at 8.3 seconds; its top speed, however, is higher at a quoted 180 km/h. Efficiency also drops only slightly to 18.8 km per litre (still 5.3 litres per 100 km), so expect its total range to be similarly close to the magic 1,000 km.

Jaecoo J5 Hybrid

From the outside, the J5 Hybrid is largely similar to the Range Rover Evoque-inspired petrol version, with the sole difference being the 18-inch aero-optimised turbine-style aero wheels from the EV version. Inside, the car takes after the J7 PHEV by ditching the electronic parking brake lever (its operation is now completely automatic, so you can’t move the car unless you put your seat belt on). But it otherwise retains a 13.2-inch portrait infotainment touchscreen and yes, even the calculator-style monochrome LCD instrument display.

The J7 Hybrid, meanwhile, is nigh-on indistinguishable from the J7 PHEV and includes that car’s streamlined mirrors and 19-inch aero wheels; you’d have to clock the single fuel filler door identify it. The same is true on the inside with its column-mounted shifter and cleaner centre console being shared with the PHEV.

However, the Hybrid gains the ruggedly-styled door cards of the petrol J7. This means pistol-grip grab handles on the three passenger doors and conventional window switches – rather than the PHEV’s fiddly reverse-direction ones – on the driver’s door, along with mirror controls that are physical (joy of joys!) instead of being buried in the 14.8-inch touchscreen. And yes, there’s still a 10.25-inch colour instrument display.

Jaecoo J7 Hybrid

Jaecoo also showed the J8 PHEV, a petrol-electric version of its three-row flagship. Beyond the obvious PHEV badging and dual flaps for fuel and charging, the car also gets the SHS-P powertrain under the bonnet – this time upgraded to the all-wheel-drive version also seen in the Omoda C9 PHEV.

This switches the single front motor with dual electric motors – a P2 integrated starter-generator making 102 PS and 170 Nm, as well as a P2.5 traction motor churning out 122 PS and 220 Nm. The J7’s single-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT) has also been ditched in favour of a three-speed unit. This allows the combustion engine to help drive the wheels at lower speeds, increasing acceleration.

Finally, the rear wheels are driven by a 230 PS/310 Nm motor, providing all-wheel drive and a total system output of 537 PS and 650 Nm of torque. This enables it to sprint from zero to 100 km/h in 5.8 seconds – nearly a second slower than the five-seat C9 PHEV – although the top speed remains a bit low at 180 km/h.

Jaecoo J8 PHEV

With the same 34 kWh NMC battery, the J8 PHEV delivers a WLTP-rated pure electric range of 134 km (11 km less than the C9 PHEV), and with a 70 litre fuel tank, the claimed total range is over 1,100 km. By the way, the J8 you see here still gets the same design as the current model, and not the newly-revealed facelift that’s badged as the Chery Tiggo 9 (not the Tiggo 9 we’ll be getting soon – confused? Us too) in China.

The J8 PHEV was also recently launched in the UK, with Australia soon to get this and the J5 Hybrid. Malaysian Omoda & Jaecoo officials told us that the cars are being considered for our market. Would you like to see these three models come here? Let us know in the comments.

GALLERY: Jaecoo J5 Hybrid

GALLERY: Jaecoo J7 Hybrid

GALLERY: Jaecoo J8 PHEV

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2026 Triumph Trident 660 update for Malaysia, RM47.9k

In Bikes, Local Bike News, Triumph / by Mohan K Ramanujam / 30 April 2026 7:23 pm

Updates for the 2026 Triumph Trident 660 in Malaysia, with retail pricing at RM47,900. Pricing not include road tax, insurance and registration, and there are three colour options – Cosmic Yellow and Stone Grey as premium choices, and the standard paint scheme of Snowdonia White.

The Trident 660 comes with cornering ABS, an up-and-down quickshifter and cruise control. Bodywork has been revised slightly while the biggest change is in the suspension and riding electronics.

With front suspension revised the Trident 660 more agile handling, 41 mm upside-down forks are fitted, upgraded with Showa’s SFF-BF ‘big piston’ damping for better comfort and control. Meanwhile, ‘Sport’ mode is now added to the previous ‘Road and ‘Rain’ modes while the upper triple clamp is now made from forged aluminium, same as the foot brake pedal.

No changes in the engine room, with the inline three-cylinder producing 80 hp at 10,250 rpm and 64 Nm of torque at 6,250 rpm. Mated to a six-speed gearbox with assist and slipper clutch, the Trident 660 delivers most of its torque across 90% of its rev range, from 3,600 rpm to 9,750 rpm.

For braking, the Trident 660 gets Nissin two-piston callipers clamping twin 310 mm discs and a Nissin single-piston calliper at the back with a single 255 mm disc. Weight for the Trident 660 is listed at 190 kg wet, with 14-litres of fuel in the tank while seat height is set at 805 mm.

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Transport ministry reviewing proposal to reduce road tax for diesel vehicles to ease financial burden – Loke

In Local News / by Mick Chan / 30 April 2026 5:15 pm

The transport ministry is reviewing a proposal for the reduction of road tax for diesel vehicles in Malaysia in order to reduce the financial burden on users while safeguarding revenue, New Straits Times has reported.

The proposal is being reviewed by the transport ministry, said transport minister Anthony Loke, but he stressed the need for a balanced approach, noting that some owners of diesel vehicles already benefited from targeted fuel subsidies.

“We must strike a balance, as not all diesel-powered vehicles are ineligible for subsidies, with some already benefitting from targeted or subsidised pricing. We need to assess how best to support those who do not receive subsidies, possibly through a reduction in road tax,” Loke said.

At the same time, any reduction in road tax for diesel vehicles will have implications on government revenue, so the proposal must be carefully considered, the transport minister continued.

Earlier this week, prime minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that the Malaysian government is considering the reduction of road tax for diesel vehicles to mitigate the impact of increasing fuel costs.

The prime minister said that lowering fuel prices was not viable at present because fuel subsidies present a heavy fiscal burden, which costs the government around RM7 billion a month, and said that the government would maintain its targeted subsidy approach for RON 95 petrol, saying that Malaysia’s fuel prices are relatively low compared to many oil-producing countries.

Earlier this month, the Malaysian Institute of Economic Research (MIER) has proposed that RON 95 petrol subsidies be gradually reduced and the savings redirected to diesel subsidies to help businesses.

Another prior report stated that the government is studying the possibility of using the MyKad mechanism for a targeted subsidy system for diesel fuel, as presently used in Budi Madani RON 95 scheme for subsidised RON 95 petrol.

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Discover iCaur at Penang Autoshow 2026 – V23 with unique bodykit, 03 Art Car, deals, test drives and more!

ADVERTORIAL / by Harvinder Sidhu / 30 April 2026 5:11 pm

Calling all Penangites! You won’t want to miss iCaur’s Penang Autoshow 2026 stand, because the ‘Born to Play’ EV brand will truly have something for everyone at the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC) from May 1-3. Don’t believe us? Read on.

iCaur’s vehicles – the rugged, customisable V23 and the lifestyle-centric 03 – are already big head-turners. They look like nothing else on the road, and are playful extensions of the owner’s personality. The upcoming Penang Autoshow 2026 is set to see the brand take creative individuality to new heights.

For starters, the show will host the debut of an exclusive bodykit, designed specifically for the V23 to highlight its tough, rugged and adventure-ready aesthetic. There will also be the 03 Art Car, a unique vehicle breathed upon by the creativity of Zameer Pentbrush.

You can also check out special eye-catching decals that further make the iCaur fleet stand out from the crowd. Yes, EVs don’t have to look boring – iCaur will show you how effective they can be as a canvas for self expression. Prepare to be inspired by lots of design ideas!

The inimitable style is backed up by advanced technology that must be experienced to be believed – both V23 and 03 are available for test drives at the show. And when you’re ready to join the iCaur universe, you’ll be encouraged by the ease-of-ownership packages worth up to RM14,000 and RM9,800 offered at the show with the V23 and 03 respectively. Every little helps in the middle of a global fuel crisis.

Even if you’re not ready for a new car at present, come and join the on-ground social media activities, which will not only thrill the whole family but could see you take home some exclusive iCaur merchandise.

And if that’s not enough, come and say hello to the AIMOGA Robot – that’s right, with its cutting-edge robotics technology, the future will literally be standing right in front of you!

So what are you waiting for? Immerse yourself in the vibrant iCaur community with fellow Northern techies and car enthusiasts at the Penang Autoshow 2026 – Penang Waterfront Convention Centre is the where; May 1-3 is the when. See you there!
Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, Ioniq 6 N open for booking in Malaysia – 650 PS super-EVs, RM450k to RM460k est

In Cars, Electric Cars in Malaysia, Hyundai, Local News / by Jonathan Lee / 30 April 2026 5:01 pm

Hyundai Ioniq 5 N

Hyundai Motor Malaysia (HMY) has made the surprise announcement that the Ioniq 5 N and Ioniq 6 N are open for booking at the 2026 Penang Autoshow, which opens to the public tomorrow at the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre. The high-performance electric SUV and sedan carry estimated pricing of RM450,000 for the Ioniq 5 N and RM460,000 for the Ioniq 6 N.

No doubt those are some exorbitant prices for a pair of Korean EVs, not least because the similarly quick Tesla Model 3 Performance can be yours for just over half the money. But remember that there were whispers of the tax-free Ioniq 5 N retailing at around RM390,000 – before its launch was postponed when HMY took over the distributorship last year – and EVs CBU fully imported from the republic are now slapped with the standard 50% of combined import and excise duties.

Prospective buyers can place their bookings at one of three dealers – Sime Darby Auto Hyundai (SDAH) in the central region, Heng Lian Enterprise in East Malaysia and new authorised dealer Goh Brothers Motor up north. The opening of the order books also pretty much locks in the launch of the two cars at the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) in June, as previously teased.

That event is at the tail end of the previously-announced second-quarter launch window, so HMY would at least be spot on there. So far, only the Ioniq 5 N has been shown, with HMY seemingly keeping the Ioniq 6 N under wraps until KLIMS proper.

In any case, both cars offer plenty of performance, powered by dual motors producing 609 PS (448 kW) and 740 Nm of torque – or 650 PS (478 kW) and 750 Nm with the sillily-named N Grin Boost (NGB) mode engaged. Turn on N Launch Control and the Ioniq 5 N is able to blitz its way to 100 km/h 3.4 seconds on its way to a top speed of 260 km/h. Meanwhile, the slightly lighter Ioniq 6 N completes the century sprint in just 3.2 seconds, but despite its sleeker shape, its top whack is actually a bit lower at 257 km/h.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 N

A full arsenal of software toys allow the N duo to deliver thrills beyond just pure straight-line speed, including N Active Sound+ and N e-Shift that simulate engine noise and a eight-speed dual-clutch transmission in a scarily convincing manner. The N models also gain bespoke suspension tuning and an electronic limited-slip differential to enhance agility, as well as larger brakes with 400 mm discs at the front.

Taking full advantage of these are various software functions that optimise the cars’ cornering abilities, such as a customisable front-to-rear torque split with N Torque Distribution, and even an N Drift Optimiser to pull some smoky drifts. Then there are the features that maximise track performance – N Race modes for power delivery, N Battery Pre-conditioning and aggressive N Pedal regenerative braking. The Ioniq 6 N gains an N Track Manager lap timer and analyser on top of all these.

Hyundai Ioniq 6 N

Not that range is a big consideration for these cars, but with an 84 kWh NMC battery, the Ioniq 5 N and Ioniq 6 N can travel up to 448 km and 487 km on a single charge respectively on the WLTP cycle. The second-generation pack – shared with the facelifted Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 – provides an increase in DC fast charging power, allowing them to be topped up from 10 to 80% in just 18 minutes despite a mild battery capacity upgrade over the pre-facelifted models.

Setting the N models apart from the regular Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 are flared fenders housing fatter wheels and Pirelli P Zero Elect tyres (measuring 21 inches for the 5 N and 20 inches for the 6 N), aggressive front and rear bumpers and unique Performance Blue paint (pearlescent on the 6 N) with red accents. Being a sedan, the Ioniq 6 N – based on the facelifted Ioniq 6, hence the split headlights – gains a swan-neck rear wing.

Hyundai Ioniq 6 N

Inside, both models receive a bespoke N steering wheel with additional buttons for the various performance functions, along with bucket seats with illuminated N logos, “chequered flag” pedals and an all-black cabin. They also get the upgraded connected car Navigation System (ccNS) for the 12.3-inch instrument and infotainment displays that finally add wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The Ioniq 5 N also gains a fixed centre console with knee pads to support your knees under hard cornering. You still get a sliding armrest as well as USB-C ports and a Qi wireless charger. Meanwhile, the Ioniq 6 N receives welcome upgrades from the facelifted Ioniq 6, most notably the new centre console with twin USB-C ports and a more compact and fully-featured physical control panel that frees up space for more storage. A built-in mount in the roof – allowing you to attach an action camera – is also unique to the 6 N.

GALLERY: Hyundai Ioniq 5 N at Penang Autoshow 2026

GALLERY: Hyundai Ioniq 6 N

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100 low-mileage Volvo Selekt Certified Used Cars up for grabs – limited time only, from just RM153,000!

ADVERTORIAL / by Harvinder Sidhu / 30 April 2026 5:00 pm

What’s better than a high-quality and stylish premium vehicle? One that’s all that, with a great deal. Here’s your chance. Volvo Selekt Certified Used Cars has curated a limited-time collection of 100 high-quality low-mileage units, sourced directly from Volvo Car Malaysia’s internal corporate fleet, alongside exclusive display and demo units from dealerships.

Volvo Selekt Certified Used Cars provide a worry-free ownership experience thanks to the high standards set by the programme. Every qualifying vehicle undergoes a rigorous 125-point inspection, and all have received the latest software upgrades available for the model. You hear the line ‘as good as new’ pretty often, but this is as close as it gets.

The pre-owned cars in the certified programme are also fitted exclusively with genuine Volvo parts for road-ready, optimal performance. Of course, all units have official service history with the manufacturer, and as the cars are sourced from Volvo’s corporate fleet and official dealerships, they are low mileage and in excellent condition.

Throughout the months of April and May, Volvo Selekt Certified Used Cars is making available a fleet of 50 units with exceptionally low mileage – none of the cars offered have more than 16,000 km on the clock, and some have done just 7,000 km. Prices start from only RM153,000 for the EX30, while the stylish EC40 can be yours for just RM183,000.

For those looking for a larger family SUV, the evergreen XC60 is a smart option at RM249,000, while the classy and confident XC90 is going for RM283,000. The EX90 – Volvo’s flagship electric SUV – can be in your driveway for just RM339,000.

With deals so good, the only dilemma you’ll have is whether to opt for a plug-in hybrid or go full electric. Use Volvo’s handy EV vs Fuel Calculator to cross-compare against your current car and discover the potential long-term savings. Once you’ve done the math, take a test drive at your nearest Volvo showroom and secure the deal. You’ll want to act quick as stocks are limited – good luck!