For the next few years, Jaguar wants you to forget about internal combustion engine vehicles, as they aim to focus on producing a lineup of electric-powered models.
However, if you have sufficient financial resources, you can request the manufacturer to recreate a model that has long been discontinued.
In this case, it’s the Jaguar E-Type.
Jaguar Classic has generously accepted a request from a collector in Southeast Asia who wishes to add a pair of Jaguar E-Types to their collection.
Using the original blueprint data from the Series 1 1961 to Series III models, Jaguar Classic has revived the E-Type Commemorative based on the special E-Type Commemorative Edition, of which only 50 units were produced in 1974 to mark the end of the E-Type’s production.
One is finished in Signet Green, while the other is in Opal Black.
These two classic cars maintain the original 3.8-liter inline six-cylinder engine, which has now been upgraded with an electronic fuel injection system, replacing the original triple carburetors.
The original four-speed manual transmission has also been replaced with a more modern five-speed unit.
According to Jaguar, they required over 2,000 hours to match all the modern upgrades on these classic vehicles, which include a heated windshield and a Bluetooth radio.
The cabin of the E-Type is adorned with Bridge of Weir tan leather seats, an aluminum center console engraved with the Series 1 blueprint, and gold and silver accents crafted by Deakin & Francis, the oldest jewelry manufacturer in Britain.
Given the quality of craftsmanship, only those with deep pockets can afford to own these classic E-Type Commemorative vehicles.
Mazda has announced the sale price for the EZ-6 sedan model, designed as the spiritual successor to the Mazda6 for the Chinese market.
The EZ-6 sedan is essentially a badge-engineered version of the Deepal SL03 model produced by Changan Automobile.
There, buyers can acquire an electric sedan powered by a single rear-wheel-drive electric motor delivering 255 hp and 320 Nm of torque, paired with two battery capacity options.
The base version comes with a 56.1 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack, offering a range of 480 km, while the 68.8 kWh battery pack allows for a range of over 600 km on a full charge.
There is also a range-extender version, where the Mazda EZ-6 range extender comes equipped with a 215 hp and 320 Nm electric motor supported by a 1.5-liter engine producing 94 hp to charge the battery pack.
Two battery capacity options are available for the range-extender version: 18.9 kWh or 28.4 kWh, with the smaller version enabling a zero-emission range of 105 km, while the larger unit increases the range to 160 km.
Most notably, thanks to the additional engine, the overall range of the EZ-6 range extender sedan can reach up to 1,300 km!
In terms of dimensions, the Mazda EZ-6 measures 4,921 mm in length with a wheelbase of approximately 2,895 mm, making it longer than its competitor, the Toyota Camry.
Other features include a 10.1-inch digital cluster screen, a 14.6-inch central screen, leather or Nappa leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, wireless device charging, a 64-color ambient lighting system, and a premium Sony audio system with 14 speakers.
The sale price starts at 139,800 yuan (RM85,531) for the range-extender variant, while the pure EV version starts at 159,800 yuan (RM97,768)
Cycle & Carriage (C&C) Cheras has now become the first C&C showroom to showcase the Peugeot brand alongside a lineup of Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
The inauguration ceremony was officiated by Thomas Tok, CEO of Cycle & Carriage; Linda Jackson, CEO of Peugeot; Daniel Gonzalez as the COO of Stellantis ASEAN, and Jamie Morais, the Managing Director of Stellantis Malaysia.
The exhibition center located on the first floor spans 4,655 square feet where customers can view Peugeot models such as the 408, 2008, 3008, 5008, and the Landtrek pickup truck, as well as a comfortable café space.
It is open daily from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM, or from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM every Sunday.
Cycle & Carriage also offers exclusive promotions in conjunction with the opening of this Peugeot showroom, where customers can enjoy savings of up to RM30,000 for the Landtrek model, up to RM40,000 for the 3008 model, and up to RM42,000 for the 5008 model.
In addition to Cheras, Cycle & Carriage will introduce the Peugeot brand at C&C Batu Caves and C&C George Town exhibition centers, as well as more branches nationwide in the near future.
Are you a fan of the Jaecoo brand but looking for a smaller-sized SUV compared to the current J7 offering?
Fret not, as Jaecoo Malaysia has confirmed the emergence of another new model set to hit the local market in the fourth quarter of the upcoming year (Q4 2025), namely the Jaecoo J5.
The Jaecoo J5 was officially unveiled at the Omoda | Jaecoo International User Summit 2024 in Wuhu, China recently.
Described as a pet-friendly SUV, the Jaecoo J5 comes equipped with several beneficial features.
For instance, extended seats for pet comfort, an air conditioning system with powerful filtration capabilities, smart climate control, and antibacterial health devices that can inhibit any bacteria growth inside the cabin.
The Jaecoo J5 is also suitable for outdoor activities as it has the ability to accommodate a load of up to 1,250 kg, a roof rack capable of holding up to 75 kg, charging ports, hooks in the cargo space, as well as versatile camping lights.
Other features include a free-hanging system, a 13.2-inch infotainment screen, and a 1.45 square meter panoramic glass roof claimed to be the largest in its class.
According to media reports, the Jaecoo J5 is equipped with the same 1.6-liter turbo TGDI engine used in the Jaecoo J7, producing 194 hp and 290 Nm paired with a seven-speed DCT transmission.
As mentioned earlier, the Jaecoo J5 has been confirmed for the Malaysian market in the fourth quarter of the upcoming year (Q4 2025) and will compete with models in its segment such as the Proton X50, Honda HR-V, Chery Omoda 5, and Peugeot 2008.
Proton recently signed a memorandum of agreement (MoA) with Grab Malaysia, offering exclusive benefits to e-hailing drivers when they purchase a Proton Saga.
This collaboration aims to enhance the driving experience and support the growing needs in the e-hailing industry.
The initiative is also expected to provide benefits to drivers, users, and further strengthen the positions of both companies in the market.
The MoA was signed by Roslan Abdullah, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Proton, and Rashid Shukor, Director of Operations and National Mobility for Grab Malaysia.
Starting from November 4, the “Saga Power Up for Grab Drivers” campaign will grant priority access to Grab driver partners to own a Proton Saga.
The campaign includes incentives and offers such as cash rebates and a 5% service discount valid for the first two years or up to 40,000 km.
Eligible drivers can purchase as many Proton Sagas as they qualify for under Grab Malaysia’s terms.
In addition to the Proton package, Grab also offers up to RM500 for new driver partners who purchase a Proton Saga and activate their Grab Driver account.
“PROTON is excited to collaborate with Grab Malaysia in supporting the e-hailing industry by offering our iconic model, the Proton Saga, to our Grab driver partners. Reliability and reasonable maintenance costs are crucial factors for entrepreneurs who use cars as their primary work tool.”
“Furthermore, this partnership provides exclusive privileges to those who accept this offer while supporting our vision for more accessible transportation for the people of Malaysia,” said Roslan Abdullah, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, PROTON.
“This collaboration reflects our commitment to providing flexible opportunities to the people of Malaysia in an ever-changing economy. By facilitating access to income opportunities, we support our partners who play a vital role in meeting the daily needs of society.
“With the increasing demand for travel, we are constantly striving to increase and optimize our active driver supply to meet these needs. This initiative encourages more people to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the digital economy,” said Rashid Shukor, Director of Operations and National Mobility, Grab Malaysia.
The mid-size pickup truck segment is set to be enlivened by the arrival of a new contender from mainland China.
In conjunction with the Chery International User Summit held in Wuhu, Chery showcased a prototype model of the pickup truck known by the codename KP11.
At first glance, one might assume that the Chery KP11 is a model infused with various design elements from well-known pickup trucks.
For example, the front end features layered main headlight designs with L-shaped daytime running lights, reminiscent of the new Mitsubishi Triton pickup truck.
Meanwhile, Ford pickup truck elements can be observed through the front grille structure with a prominent CHERY wordmark, the use of blue color, rear lights, and the presence of side step bars on the rear bumper.
To further accentuate the versatile character of this pickup truck, Chery has incorporated various camping accessories, including a rack on the rear bed and a rooftop tent.
According to local media reports, the Chery KP11 is expected to be offered with a choice of a 2.4-liter turbo petrol engine with plug-in hybrid (PHEV) configuration or a range extender version.
The Chery KP11 is set to be launched in the Asia-Pacific, South America, and Europe markets next year, joining the already competitive pickup truck segment populated with models such as the Ford Ranger, GWM Cannon, Mazda BT-50, Mitsubishi Triton, Nissan Navara, and Toyota Hilux.
At the Philippine International Motor Show, Mitsubishi Motors unveiled a three-row seating SUV concept named DST.
Mitsubishi announced that the DST Concept will be realized as an actual production model, set to be launched in 2025.
With the introduction of the DST, Mitsubishi aims to further expand its SUV product portfolio (including Pajero Sport, Xforce & Xpander Cross) in the ASEAN market, and it is not designed to replace existing products.
Here are some facts you need to know about the Mitsubishi DST Concept:
1. Monocoque Chassis SUV
The Mitsubishi DST is built on a unibody platform and does not rely on a ladder-frame platform.
It is likely to share the same platform used in the Xforce B-segment SUV model.
2. Gravitas & Dynamism Theme
In addition to the Dynamic Shield elements that are the hallmark of Mitsubishi vehicles, the exterior of the DST Concept also emphasizes the Gravitas & Dynamism design theme.
This design concept is presented through the boxy body shape offering spacious and comfortable cabin space, even with the presence of the third-row seats.
The use of contoured fenders, large-diameter tires, and high ground clearance further accentuate the rugged and athletic character of this SUV, especially on the road.
3. Elements unlikely to exist in the actual production model
Typical of a concept car, the DST possesses several unique features.
These include frameless door design, absence of door handles, digital side mirrors with a special display screen on the dashboard, and an extended roof solar panel.
It is highly likely that all of these features will be revised to suit the specifications of the actual production model.
4. Premium cabin space
For the interior, Mitsubishi employs soft-touch materials on the door panels and dashboard.
The trend of a digital screen with a single curved display is also used in the DST Concept, followed by a somewhat futuristic center console and a new two-spoke steering wheel design.
There is no information available regarding the cargo space capacity, possibly limited based on the third-row seating image provided by Mitsubishi.
5. Front-wheel-drive SUV, 5 driving modes
Mitsubishi has not disclosed the powertrain that will be used in the actual production version of the DST Concept.
However, it is certain that the DST will have a front-wheel-drive (FWD) system complemented with five driving modes: Normal, Tarmac, Gravel, Mud, and Wet.
For reference, the previously launched Mitsubishi Xforce was equipped with a 1.5-liter engine producing 103 hp paired with a CVT transmission driving the front wheels.
WTC Automotif (M) Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Warisan TC Holdings, officially opened a top-notch 3S exhibition center showcasing the GAC and AION brands in Glenmarie.
The GAC showcase room spans 456 square meters, accommodating three vehicles for display, while the AION showcase room covers 644 square meters, housing customer lounge areas and display spaces for up to six cars.
Both showcase rooms operate seven days a week from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekdays, closing at 6:00 PM on Saturdays and 5:00 PM on Sundays and public holidays.
Meanwhile, the GAC and AION Glenmarie service center spans 10,878 square meters, featuring 10 work bays supported by certified technicians, service consultants, and after-sales support teams.
The service center operates from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Saturday only.
There are special play areas for children, a coffee lounge, and a dedicated space for exclusive GAC and AION merchandise.
In conjunction with the Deepavali celebration, the GAC & AION Glenmarie exhibition center will host a special event on October 26-27 from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM where customers can test drive the latest lineup and experience demonstrations of various modern features present in GAC and AION models.
Customers can also view the showcased standard variant of the GAC GS3 EMZOOM, as well as the debut of the AION Hyptec HT electric SUV displaying ‘falcon’ rear doors.
The new generation Mitsubishi Triton has been officially launched for the local market last week after being introduced at the global level for over a year.
It can be said that almost every aspect of this pickup truck has been extensively redesigned, including the platform, engine, suspension system, cabin layout, and most importantly, a more rugged and bold appearance.
So, do the aforementioned changes have a significant impact on this Triton pickup truck?
Earlier this month, the writer and other media colleagues were invited to test drive the Mitsubishi Triton 2025 from the capital heading towards the East Coast.
Here is an overview of our experience after driving this pickup truck for two days:
1. More stable and confident driving
The Mitsubishi Triton 2025 utilizes an all-new platform with larger dimensions, making it appear more rugged on the road.
The new Triton also features a sturdier ladder-frame chassis, emphasizing the use of high-strength steel (1,180 MPa) to minimize weight gain.
Additionally, the new Triton is equipped with a suspension system with longer travel distance and thicker stabilizer bars, along with an electronic power steering (EPS) system, all contributing to a more stable and confident driving experience.
Based on our experience, the Triton offers easy-to-handle steering response, not too heavy or too light, making it easier for the driver to navigate throughout the journey.
In addition, the journey is more comfortable due to less vibration and noise perceived from inside the cabin throughout the journey, even when traversing various types of road surfaces.
2. More powerful new engine
In addition to the platform, the Triton 2025 now also features an all-new diesel engine.
Although the capacity has not changed much, the 2.4-liter turbo MIVEC engine (code name 4N16) now produces a high output of 204 PS and torque of 470 Nm.
Coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission, the Triton does not require much effort to overtake cargo trailers or those seeking rental properties in the middle of the highway.
At standard highway speeds, driving the Triton felt agile and powerful, resembling the feeling of driving an SUV.
The typical Active Yaw Control (AYC) feature found in high-performance Mitsubishi models is also offered in the new Triton, providing more confidence, especially when navigating winding roads.
However, it should be noted that the Triton is still a pickup truck, and one must be aware of the limits and capabilities of a pickup truck, as well as the driver’s skills in handling a vehicle with a high center of gravity.
3. More confident off-road driving
We had the opportunity to test the handling of the Triton pickup truck on off-road routes in Janda Baik, followed by a special off-road driving session provided during the recent official launch.
To us, the combination of the platform, engine, suspension system, and the 4WD Super Select II system also provided advantages to the Triton in tackling more difficult and challenging routes.
Based on our experience, it was difficult for us to feel significant roughness inside the cabin even when the pickup truck was driven at high speed on dusty roads or over rocky terrain.
The power derived from the 2.4-liter diesel engine was also smoothly transmitted to the wheels to ensure the truck continued to move forward or overcome obstacles as directed by the driver.
With the use of EPS steering, handling on off-road routes also felt more assured, especially for those who may not be accustomed to handling larger vehicles.
The 4WD Super Select II system with on-the-fly mode selection operation is also very easy to use for adapting the pickup truck to various road surface conditions.
As standard, the Triton provides up to seven drive modes that can be selected through drive mode settings such as 2H, 4H, 4HLc, and 4LLc, not forgetting the Hill Descent Control (HDC) feature that allows the driver to control the vehicle while descending a slope without having to rely on the brakes..
4. Beast Mode makes the Triton look more rugged
Initially, it was difficult for the writer to accept the visual changes present in this new Triton.
When placed alongside the previous generation Triton, many may be inclined to choose the Triton with the sharper design of the Dynamic Shield.
For the new Triton, the Dynamic Shield element has been renewed with the Beast Mode theme, making the appearance of this Triton look more rugged.
The L-shaped LED daytime running lights are intentionally designed to resemble sharp eagle eyes, while the rear lights with T-shaped graphics further accentuate the breadth of this pickup truck.
Additionally, the somewhat boxy body design makes this Triton resemble an American pickup truck.
5. More modern, user-friendly cabin space
The new Triton incorporates the Horizontal Axis design element to make the layout of the dashboard neater and less obstructive to the view.
The writer greatly appreciates the combination of analog meters and a digital screen with a black background that is very easy to read and devoid of distracting fancy colors that could disrupt driving focus.
The new Triton also features large and easy-to-use physical buttons and controls.
This is an important feature because most old-school drivers, like the writer, rely on muscle memory to adjust settings such as temperature, fan speed, or simply change the direction of airflow without needing to frequently divert their attention while driving.
The central screen also does not need to be excessively large to the point of obstructing the field of vision, it is adequate and at the same time still offers the desired functions of most users – Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
One thing the writer likes about the Triton is the air conditioning vent positioned on the ceiling, which requires cool breeze from the front to make the rear passengers comfortable.
The second-row seats are also comfortable to use with a less steep angle, but the structure of the headrests themselves makes the passengers sit a little more upright than usual.
One significant drawback present in the new Triton is the absence of a 360-degree surround camera feature, which may make you feel the driving experience with the Triton especially on narrow roads or slightly challenging off-road routes a bit difficult due to the increased dimensions of the Triton, which have become larger, wider, and taller.
The turning radius of this pickup truck has also increased due to the longer wheelbase compared to previous models.
If there are no third-row passengers, it is recommended to remove the center headrest as its position could disrupt the rearview mirror’s field of vision.
Jaecoo Malaysia today began the preview session for the new J7 PHEV SUV model that will be launched this year, located at Sunway Pyramid.
The plug-in hybrid SUV will be sold at an estimated price of around RM170,000 for the 2WD version.
Unlike the standard J7, which comes with a 1.6-liter turbo engine, the J7 PHEV is equipped with a fifth-generation hybrid powertrain, consisting of a 1.5-liter turbo engine (141 hp/215 Nm), electric motor (201 hp/310 Nm), and an 18.3 kWh battery pack.
Overall, the J7 PHEV is capable of generating up to 342 hp and a torque of 525 Nm, with acceleration from 0-100 km/h in just 8.5 seconds and a fuel consumption rate as low as 4.9 liters/100 km.
According to Jaecoo, the J7 PHEV can operate in zero-emission mode for up to 106 km, with an overall range reaching 1,300 km on a full tank of fuel.
The 2WD version comes with three driving modes, namely Economy, Standard, and Sports.
In terms of exterior, the design of the J7 PHEV does not show significant changes except for the aerodynamic 19-inch rims (235/50 R19 tires) and the battery charging port on the right side.
It also retains the MacPherson front suspension setup followed by a multilink at the rear, and the same dimension size as the petrol J7 model.
The cargo space of the J7 PHEV has also increased to 500 liters and can reach up to 1,265 liters when the second-row seats are folded.
The J7 PHEV cabin features include a 10.25-inch cluster screen, a 14.8-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, and dual-zone climate control.
The most advanced safety features included are automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, driver monitoring system, emergency lane-keeping assistance, intelligent high-beam assistance, lane departure warning, rear traffic warning, and traffic jam assistance.
There are three available colors, including black (Carbon Crystal Black), white (Crystal White), and silver (Moonlight Silver), all with a black roof.
Hybrid cars still not sufficient to eliminate range anxiety?
Do not worry, as Kia now offers a hybrid crossover product that can travel up to 1,600 km, namely the Kia Niro Tri-Fuel.
It features a combination of a 1.6-liter Smartstream engine with 89 hp power along with a 43 hp electric motor, making the total power output approximately 126 hp and 264 Nm.
Unlike the regular Kia Niro Hybrid, the Kia Niro Tri-Fuel has two fuel tanks, consisting of a 41.6-liter petrol tank and a 40-liter propane (LPG) tank positioned under the cargo floor.
The third ‘tank’ present in the Kia Niro is actually a 1.3 kWh battery pack.
With two full tanks (along with the battery pack), the Kia Niro Tri-Fuel can be driven up to 1,600 km, while reducing CO2 emissions by 6 percent compared to the standard hybrid model.
To switch from petrol to LPG, the driver can press a special button provided alongside the ignition button, as well as check the remaining LPG fuel capacity.
The LPG system installation process is carried out by the gas equipment company BRC, but owners can still enjoy a full warranty for up to seven years or a mileage limit of 150,000 km.
According to Kia, Niro Tri-Fuel owners can save on fueling costs up to €5,000 (RM23,453).
The selling price of the Kia Niro Tri-Fuel starts from €34,450 (RM161,591) and can reach up to €39,200 (RM183,872) for the premium variant.
Currently, the sale of Kia Niro Tri-Fuel is limited to the Italian market only.
The Malaysian contingent and six other nations has successfully demonstrated that the Jaecoo J7 PHEV model is capable of traveling over 1,300 km on one tank of fuel and a full battery in a marathon event from Guangzhou to Wuhu, China last week.
The 13-hour journey, which began on October 16, witnessed the Jaecoo J7 PHEV achieving an emission-free distance of 125.2 km, or 19.2 km further than the official distance.
According to the specifications, the Jaecoo J7 PHEV is powered by a 1.5-liter TGDi engine with an electric motor, DHT (Dedicated Hybrid Transmission) transmission, and an 18.3 kWh battery pack, offering an electric driving range of 106 km, as well as the best fuel consumption rate in its class, approximately 5.99 liters per 100 km.
According to Jaecoo Malaysia’s Vice President, Emily Lek, “this success proves the excellence of Jaecoo’s Super Hybrid System (SHS) technology, which offers efficient and energy-saving driving and sets a new benchmark for efficient transportation.”
For the local market, the Jaecoo J7 PHEV will be offered in two variants, namely 2WD and AWD.
The 2WD variant comes with the options of Standard, Sport, and Economy driving modes, while the AWD version adds Sand, Mud, Snow, and Off-Road modes.
This plug-in hybrid SUV is set to be launched towards the end of this year, with distribution expected to start in February 2025.
In the coming weeks, Geely is set to launch its latest SUV model in the Galaxy series, the Galaxy Starship 7.
This SUV is built on the new Global Energy Architecture (GEA) platform that supports the super electric hybrid “Thor” technology, referring to the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain configuration.
The mentioned Thor system consists of a 1.5-liter engine and a single electric motor that drives the front wheels, paired with a battery pack sourced from SVOLT.
According to Geely, there are two battery pack capacity options available, namely a 19.09 kWh that can offer an electric range of up to 101 km, or a 28.94 kWh with a zero-emission range of 150 km.
In terms of dimensions, the Geely Galaxy Starship 7 measures 4,740 mm in length, 1,905 mm in width, 1,685 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,755 mm.
This makes the Galaxy Starship 7 almost as large as SUV models like the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class.
Despite its somewhat futuristic name, the design of the Geely Galaxy Starship 7 appears quite conventional, reminiscent of the Porsche Macan/Cayenne models, especially at the rear.
As for the cabin space, the Galaxy Starship 7 features a large central infotainment screen, followed by a smaller digital cluster screen behind the two-spoke steering wheel.
The central console houses a wireless device charging slot, main control buttons, cupholders, and storage space at the bottom complete with additional USB slots.
More information is expected to be revealed closer to the official launch later this year. The most important question – will this be rebranded into a Proton car?
Subaru is set to launch the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid crossover in the Japanese market this December.
This hybrid crossover model will be the first to utilize a new generation hybrid system, promising a driving range of up to 1,000 km on a full tank of fuel.
The powertrain unit consists of a newly developed 2.5-liter boxer engine, producing 158 hp and 209 Nm, paired with two electric motors and a 1.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.
One of the motors is used to drive the wheels with 118 hp/270 Nm, while another motor acts as a motor-generator unit.
Subaru states that the driving electric motor can be used as the main power source in various situations.
As expected from a Subaru, the Crosstrek Hybrid retains the symmetrical all-wheel-drive system.
The hybrid system promises a 20 percent increase in efficiency compared to the existing hybrid system.
Combined with a larger fuel tank (63 liters), Subaru claims the Crosstrek Hybrid model can be driven up to 1,000 km before needing to refuel.
Despite featuring a relatively small capacity battery pack, the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid still offers zero-emission driving mode, even though the available range may not be as extensive as other PHEV cars on the market.
In addition to the benefits of an extended driving range and EV mode, the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid also provides a 100V/1500W AC power outlet in the cargo space for off-grid activities.
A few months ago, Subaru’s Chief Technology Officer, Tetsuo Fujinuki, acknowledged that the boxer engine is not the ideal solution for achieving the desired efficiency.
“If you were just going for efficiency, horizontally opposed engines are not necessarily always the best option. But what would Subaru be without them? When you think about it, we are the only mass-market brand making horizontally opposed engines today.”
Indonesian weapons manufacturer PT Pindad has unveiled a new SUV model that is used as the official vehicle for the eighth President of the republic, Prabowo Subianto.
Known as the MV3 Garuda Limousine, the all-white SUV presents a more exclusive image compared to the use of luxury sedans for previous presidents.
It measures 5.05 meters in length, 2.06 meters in width, 1.87 meters in height, and has a long wheelbase to ensure the comfort of VIP passengers inside.
According to PT Pindad, the Garuda Limousine is based on the MV3 Maung tactical vehicle with a four-wheel-drive system (4×4), but it is equipped with a 199 hp turbo diesel engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
The manufacturer has also prioritized safety features in the development of this special presidential vehicle.
With the use of composite armor and B5/B6 level bullet-resistant glass, the MV3 Garuda Limousine is capable of withstanding NATO 7.52 x 51 mm and M193 5.56 x 45 mm bullet attacks. It is also equipped with 21-inch rims wrapped in Run Flat tires.
Other features include automatic side steps, premium leather upholstery, rear passenger LCD display screen, a 360-degree surround camera system, and a body kit inspired by the parang batik design.
As a comparison, the military light utility vehicle Maung is equipped with a 2GD-FTV Toyota Hilux 149 hp, 400 Nm diesel engine mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox.
The version produced for the civilian is equipped with a 2.5-liter diesel engine sourced from the Isuzu D-Max pickup model.
Stellantis Malaysia has announced the opening of the Allure Auto sales center located on Jalan Klang Lama, doubling as the first multi-brand showroom in Malaysia.
The dealership will house new Peugeot models alongside the recently launched Leapmotor brand and its all-new electric SUV, the Leapmotor C10.
This 1S sales center has ample space to display up to five vehicles at a time, in addition to providing comfortable customer areas, vehicle distribution space, and interactive displays.
The Jalan Klang Lama Allure Auto 1S center will be supported by a 2S center (service and spare parts) located in USJ1, shared with Peugeot Subang Jaya.
The facility will be staffed with certified Stellantis technicians, in addition to serving as a hub for major repairs and high-voltage system maintenance, body and paint repairs, diagnostics, and general maintenance.
To ensure smooth support for existing Peugeot customers, Allure Auto will collaborate with nearby authorized Peugeot distributors to handle any technical issues and provide comprehensive after-sales solutions.
According to Stellantis Malaysia’s CEO, Jamie Francis Morais, “I am delighted to introduce our first multi-brand distribution center in Malaysia designed to showcase various Peugeot vehicles and the new electric SUV, Leapmotor C10.
“Allure Auto has been an excellent distributor, and the second outlet (more to come in the future) demonstrates their commitment to offering an exceptional brand experience to our customers and expanding our network nationwide.”
Evolvelectric Motors, the official distributor of JAC Motors vehicles in Malaysia, has launched the mid-size pickup truck model 2025 JAC T9 today.
For the local market, there are two powertrain options offered, namely the 2.0L turbo diesel version and the electric (BEV) variant.
Both versions of the T9 have the same dimensional size, measuring 5,330 mm in length, 1,965 mm in width, and 1,920 mm in height with a wheelbase of 3,110 mm.
The ground clearance is as high as 210 mm, with an approach angle of 27 degrees, departure angle of 23 degrees, and the capability to ford water up to 800 mm in depth.
The JAC T9 Grand-ES features a 2.0-liter turbo diesel inline-four engine with 167 hp @ 3,600 rpm and torque of 410 Nm @ 1,500-2,500 rpm, paired with a four-wheel-drive (4WD) system and an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission.
Meanwhile, the JAC T9 Grand-BEV is equipped with a combination of two electric motors.
The front axle motor produces 94 hp/176 Nm while the rear axle motor generates 215 hp/342 Nm, with a combined power reaching 516 Nm.
The CATL LFP battery pack with an 88 kWh capacity allows a range of up to 340 km (WLTP data).
The JAC T9 Grand-BEV also supports 11 kW AC charging (15-100% charge in 6 hours 50 minutes), as well as fast DC charging at 88 kW, allowing the battery to be charged from 30-80% in just 35 minutes.
Externally, the JAC T9 comes with features such as LED headlights, LED daytime running lights (DRL), LED taillights, side step boards, rear sports bar, and roof rails.
Moving into the cabin, the JAC T9 offers amenities such as a 7-inch cluster screen, a 10.4-inch center screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, six-way power-adjustable front seats, ambient lighting system, wireless device charging, and six speakers.
For the rear passengers, there are second-row air vents, additional USB ports, and power sockets for electronic devices.
JAC T9 Grand-BEV
JAC T9 Grand-ES
Loaded safety features include seven airbags, a 360-degree surround-view camera, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), autonomous emergency braking (AEB), lane departure warning (LDW), lane-keep assist (LKS), adaptive cruise control (ACC), and traffic sign recognition system (TSRS).
It’s no surprise that both versions of the JAC T9 pickup truck received a five-star rating in the Australasian NCAP (ANCAP) new vehicle assessment.
The estimated selling price for the JAC T9 2025 pickup truck starts below RM120,000 for the diesel version, valid until December 31 for the first 300 customers, with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty.
Meanwhile, the JAC T9 Grand-BEV is priced below RM200,000 and comes with a six-year manufacturer’s warranty or a limit of 200,000 km. It is valid for the first 100 customers who book before December 31, 2024.
The Road Transport Department (JPJ) is accepting bids for Madani Series Special Registration Numbers (NPIs), with a minimum price of as low as RM100 beginning Saturday (Oct 19) until 10pm on Wednesday (Oct 23), through the JPJeBid System.
Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli said that the NPI bid results would be issued on Thursday (Oct 24) and the registration number that was successfully bid must be registered within 12 months from the date the official bid result letter is issued.
“This bidding method is subject to the existing Terms & Conditions that have been set in the JPJeBid System,” he said in a statement on Sunday (Oct 20).
He said the minimum bid price for the number plate series was set according to category, namely RM20,000 for ‘Main Number’, RM5,000 (Premium Number), RM2,500 (Attractive Number), RM500 (Popular Number) and RM100 (Running Number).
Commenting on the NPI, Aedy Fadly said it was a government initiative to support the MADANI Malaysia agenda by promoting civic values.
He said the sale proceeds would be used to realise the implementation of initiatives under the Transport Ministry such as the MyLESEN programme, the Helmet Exchange programme, FlySISWA, Socso payments to taxi drivers and various other initiatives.
For the information of our readers, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia has recently launched the facelifted version of the Xpander a few weeks ago.
A test drive review has also been published by us, and you can read the details through THIS link.
However, behind the positive aspects that we highlighted in the test drive article, there are a few shortcomings that can be improved and enhanced for the benefit of users in Malaysia.
1. Lackluster Acceleration
The Xpander facelift maintains the four-cylinder in-line 1.5-liter MIVEC engine producing 105 PS and 141 Nm of torque, paired with an automatic gearbox – similar to the pre-facelift model.
Therefore, the driving dynamics have not changed significantly, and the acceleration aspect is not the most powerful in its class.
For those with a heavy right foot, this Xpander facelift may not live up to expectations, especially when navigating hilly terrains.
However, for casual driving, it is more than sufficient, especially since the Xpander is fuel-efficient if driven correctly.
2. Headlights Look More Modern, but…
One thing the writer appreciates about the Xpander facelift is its updated and aggressive exterior design.
The headlights now feature a horizontal T-shaped design, while the daytime running lights are more advanced and brighter compared to the previous model which used fog lights as DRLs.
However, the downside is that the DRLs are integrated with the turn signals.
When the turn signals are activated, it may be difficult to see, especially for oncoming drivers, due to the DRLs not being dimmed together.
3. Price Factor and Included Features
The pricing factor might also make some users hesitant to acquire this latest Xpander model.
Its competitor, the Perodua Alza, starts at RM62,500, while its counterpart, the Veloz, is priced at RM95,000.
For budget-conscious consumers, this Mitsubishi Xpander might be overlooked due to its relatively higher price tag compared to its competitors, priced at RM99,980 even though it is assembled in the Pekan, Pahang plant.
Another aspect that we find challenging to deny is the standard safety factor present in this MPV model.
For the facelift version, the Xpander only offers very basic specifications, with just two airbags, while other competitors offer up to six airbags and more advanced ADAS features.
Regardless of the weaknesses listed in this article and the advantages present in the Xpander facelift, it is up to the readers to assess and choose the best option for their family’s use.
At the end of the day (and month), it is you who must take money out of your pocket, right?
Harman Kardon has introduced the latest audio system series Flow and Feel, designed for those seeking concert-grade audio quality in their vehicles.
The Flow series features the Flow 600CF and Flow 601CFS 165 mm powerful 360W speakers, complete with a 19 mm tweeter, 180W midrange woofer Flow 300S, and a 19 mm dome tweeter Flow 75T 360W.
Additionally, there is an offer for the 200 mm subwoofer underseat Flow 80 with 375W power, specially designed as an upgrade solution for BMW factory subwoofers and adaptable to various Audi and Porsche models.
For those looking for powerful bass without taking up much space, the Feel 700, a compact 165 mm subwoofer, is ideal for placement under the seat.
The Feel 700 boasts powerful performance with a built-in 125W RMS amplifier housed in a die-cast aluminum enclosure wrapped in automotive-grade fabric.
