All posts by Hanif Su'ib

Someone who loves driving manual cars but prefers riding an automatic scooter. Maybe it's an age thing.

2025 Tank 300 now available in diesel variant with 2.4T engine, 181 hp, 480 Nm, 9AT

Great Wall Motor (GWM) has updated its offerings for the 2025 off-road SUV model, the Tank 300, introducing a brand-new diesel engine variant for customers.

The Tank 300 diesel is powered by a 2.4-liter turbo engine that delivers 181 horsepower and 480 Nm of torque.

With a nine-speed automatic transmission (9AT), the Tank 300 is said to provide a smoother driving experience, boasting an efficiency rate of up to 97 percent!

In addition to the 2.0-liter turbo petrol variant (217 hp/380 Nm), the Tank 300 is also available in a Hi4-T plug-in hybrid version.

The total output of the Tank 300 Hi4-T can reach 402 hp and 750 Nm of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h acceleration in just 6.7 seconds and offering an emissions-free range of up to 105 km.

Ten driving modes are also available.

Significant changes have been made to the cabin, with the Tank 300 now featuring a 14.6-inch infotainment screen powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip, a 12.3-inch digital cluster display, a column-mounted gear shifter, and a new steering wheel.

Additionally, it includes a 12-speaker audio system, Coffee OS 3 operating system, active noise cancellation, and Nappa leather seating.

Due to the relocation of the gear shifter and the revamped layout of the functional buttons on the center console, the cockpit now appears more spacious and tidy.

In terms of exterior design, the 2025 Tank 300 retains the same aesthetic as the existing model, but it adds a new desert yellow color option.

In China, the starting price for the 2025 Tank 300 is 199,800 yuan (RM122,070), with the diesel variant starting from 234,800 yuan (RM143,454), and the Hi4-T variant starting at 249,800 yuan (RM152,618).

 

Tank 300 Hi4-T

Tank 300 Petrol & Diesel

Toyota C-HR+ debuts in Europe, e-TNGA 2.0 platform, range up to 600 km

Toyota now has a new electric vehicle (EV) model, and it no longer uses the ‘bZ’ prefix seen in models like the bZ4X and bZ3.

Instead, it adopts the existing name, C-HR+.

Although it carries the C-HR+ name, this electric vehicle does not share the same platform as the standard C-HR; rather, it utilizes the e-TNGA 2.0 platform, which is the same as that of the bZ4X.

This is evidenced by its length of 4,520 mm and a wheelbase of 2,750 mm, significantly larger than the second-generation C-HR.

For the European market, the C-HR is available in a single electric motor version with 165 hp, offering acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 8.6 seconds, a 57.7 kWh battery pack, and a driving range of 455 km.

A more powerful version produces 221 hp with a swift 0-100 km/h time of 7.4 seconds, accompanied by a 77 kWh battery pack that allows for a range of up to 600 km.

There is also an all-wheel-drive version equipped with two electric motors, generating 338 hp and achieving acceleration from 0-100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds. With the same 77 kWh battery pack, this AWD variant can travel up to 525 km.

In terms of exterior design, the C-HR+ closely resembles the standard C-HR, with the exception of more streamlined taillights, a roof spoiler, and a ducktail spoiler at the rear.

Standard features for the C-HR+ include AC charging at 11 kW (or up to 22 kW) as well as DC fast charging of up to 150 kW.

To ensure optimal charging operation, the C-HR+ is equipped with a battery pre-conditioning system that can be activated manually or automatically.

Inside the cabin, there is a 14-inch infotainment display complete with physical control knobs, dual wireless device charging slots, and a mapping navigation system capable of identifying charging points based on the SUV’s driving range.

Finally, the C-HR+ is equipped with advanced safety features as standard, including a blind spot monitoring system, adaptive high beam assistance, and parking brake support.

Features such as a surround-view monitoring system and parking assistance are reserved for the more premium variants.

According to Toyota, the C-HR+ is set to launch in several selected European markets by late 2025.

Stellantis Malaysia opens Desa Park City showroom, Subang service centre

In an effort to provide the best services to customers, Stellantis Malaysia has recently launched a showroom and service center, located in Desa Park City and Subang, respectively.

These new facilities will be part of the dealer network serving the areas of Subang Jaya, Jalan Klang Lama, and Desa Park City.

The Desa Park City showroom, operated by Allure Auto, is situated in a strategic location and offers an engaging experience through exhibitions of Peugeot and Leapmotor vehicles.

It also features a modern lounge complete with a TV and interactive configurations, as well as other amenities such as beverages and coffee for a pleasant customer visit.

The Allure Auto showroom operates daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Meanwhile, the Subang service center spans 5,702 square feet, providing six car service bays and two drop-off areas.

It offers maintenance facilities for high-voltage electric vehicles and advanced technology all under one roof.

Customers can benefit from comprehensive after-sales solutions, including spare parts, service, and warranty support provided by five qualified technicians and service advisors from Stellantis.

A 24/7 helpline is also available to ensure customers receive prompt technical assistance.

Isaac Yeo, Interim Managing Director for ASEAN at Stellantis, said, “At Stellantis, we are committed to setting a new benchmark in automotive excellence.

“Through our collaboration with Allure Auto, we have developed a world-class hub that demonstrates our dedication to enhancing the customer experience and providing top-notch after-sales service.

“With four outlets in their portfolio, this expansion exemplifies our innovative spirit and dedication to delivering a dynamic and customer-focused experience,” he explained.

“It’s a car, not a phone”: Volkswagen reintroduces physical control buttons

After several years, Volkswagen has finally admitted that the minimalist approach taken in the design of their vehicle cabins was a significant mistake.

This minimalist approach involved cramming all vehicle control functions into a central touchscreen and completely removing physical control buttons from the cabin.

In a report by Autocar, VW’s head of design Andreas Mindt acknowledged this mistake and promised to revert to a previous approach.

“Starting with the ID.2all model and beyond, we will reintroduce physical control buttons for the five most important functions – audio volume, temperature control for both the driver and passenger sides, airflow control, and hazard lights – beneath the main screen.

“This functionality will be reimplemented in every vehicle we produce. This time, we will not repeat this mistake.

“On the steering wheel, we will also bring back physical buttons. They provide feedback, create a real experience, and people will appreciate this feature.

“To be honest, it’s a car, not a phone,” he added.

The measures taken by VW are also a response to requirements set by Euro NCAP, which starting in 2026, will not allow a vehicle to achieve the maximum five-star rating unless it features physical controls for the horn, windshield wipers, turn signals, hazard lights, and SOS functions.

Since Tesla pioneered this minimalist approach, more manufacturers have attempted to follow the trend by offering simpler cabin layouts — meaning drivers must rely entirely on the screen to change necessary settings, especially while driving.

The situation has worsened with some vehicle models that do not have physical levers for turn signals, windshield wipers, or transmission.

In fact, in the name of cost savings, some manufacturers have even relocated window switches to the central console. While this creates a minimalist appearance, it ultimately complicates the user experience.

Autobacs Super GT, Nihon Matsuri to enliven Sepang Circuit this June

The Autobacs Super GT 2025 racing event, set to take place on June 27 and 28, will provide something special for fans of Japanese culture.

In collaboration with the annual Nihon Matsuri event, Autobacs Super GT 2025 in Malaysia will not only showcase racing action but also feature a cultural and food festival celebrating Japan.

Interestingly, that weekend will also witness the opening round of the 2025 GR86 Cup Series Malaysia, involving 30 racing vehicles from the GR86 category.

According to Fahrizal Hasan, Managing Partner at HARO Sports & Entertainment, “Super GT continues to be recognized for its carnival-like atmosphere. It is one of the international events that allows fans to get close to drivers, teams, and their favorite vehicles.”

“This year, the Super GT Malaysia Festival 2025 will present an exciting celebration themed around Japanese culture.”

A variety of activities have been organized for visitors, including an open pit session, pit walks, circuit safaris, and an exhibition featuring various booths and souvenir sales.

Tickets for the Autobacs Super GT 2025 Malaysia round went on sale on February 27.

For a limited time, purchasers can obtain tickets priced at RM80 for the K1 Grandstand, RM200 for the Main Grandstand, and RM2,000 for the GT Club Paddock Hospitality lounge at www.supergtmalaysia.com.

The opening round of Super GT 2025 will take place at Okayama International Circuit on April 13, followed by the second round at Fuji Speedway on May 4, and the third round in Malaysia on June 27-28.

The fifth round will be held at Suzuka Circuit on August 24, followed by Sportsland Sugo on September 21, and Autopolis International Racing Course on October 19, with the final round at Mobility Resort Motegi on November 2.

Super GT features a lineup of drivers and manufacturers from Japan (Nissan, Lexus, Toyota, Honda, and Subaru) competing in the GT500 and GT300 classes, alongside renowned manufacturers from Continental such as Aston Martin, Lamborghini, Mercedes-Benz, Ferrari, and BMW.

Malaysia remains the only race location outside of Japan for the 2025 racing season, after Super GT was last held in Thailand in 2019.

Can you imagine a future for Volvo without wagons?

Honestly, we believe Volvo has been one of the best manufacturers of beautiful wagon designs since the first model (the Duett) was introduced in 1953, and that reputation continues to this day.

However, the expertise that Volvo is known for may not be needed in the future.

According to CEO Jim Rowan in an interview with AutoExpress, the future of Volvo will no longer include wagon models; instead, the brand will focus on sedan and SUV models.

This represents a significant shift for a brand widely recognized for its elegant wagon tradition over the years.

Rowan explained that it’s quite costly to introduce different vehicle models to the market and keep them there.

“It’s more cost-effective to drive higher volumes through the same platform and body style,” he said.

With the absence of wagon models, Volvo aims to position its existing SUV lineup with various offerings, such as the Black Edition and Cross Country, which are more tailored for specific customer segments.

Interestingly, this recent announcement comes shortly after a statement from Volvo UK’s commercial director, Robert Deane, who admitted that the decision to stop selling the V60 and V90 models in 2023 was a mistake.

“When you tell customers that a model (wagon) is no longer available, they will start looking for alternatives from other brands,” he added.

Undoubtedly, aside from Volvo, several other manufacturers, such as Audi and BMW, still offer wagon models, even though that market is dwindling year by year.

Further explaining Volvo’s direction, Rowan stated that the company is intentionally narrowing its focus at this time.

“We’re making very conscious choices about where we want to play the game. Where we’re differentiating is with SUVs; nice high ride height, very safe – and we think we can protect that beachhead against the competition.

“It’s much easier than us becoming distracted by too many models.”

For 2025, Volvo has already planned to introduce five new models, including the ES90 sedan and the upcoming EX60 electric SUV.

One thing is clear: wagons are no longer a priority for Volvo at this time.

First Xiaomi SU7 Ultra crashed on track

This isn’t the first time news of accidents involving Xiaomi’s electric sedan has been reported.

If you recall, last year a Xiaomi SU7 Max was reported to have skidded off the track due to an unsuitable braking system.

According to Xiaomi, the electric sedan is not designed for serious driving on the circuit.

So what about the fast sedan, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra?

According to Xiaomi, the SU7 Ultra, with specifications of 1,526 hp and a price tag of RMB 529,900 (approximately RM 324,000), is confirmed to be suitable for track use.

However, just a few days after the first small batch of SU7 Ultra vehicles was distributed to owners, one of them was reported to have skidded on the racetrack.

In a video that surfaced on the social media platform Weibo, the sedan was seen traveling at over 120 km/h on a straight section of the track.

However, the driver of the vehicle braked too late, causing the SU7 Ultra to skid off and collide with a barrier made of tires.

As a result, the hood, front bumper, fender, and headlight unit were severely damaged. Fortunately, the airbag deployed correctly, ensuring the driver remained safe.

According to Lei Jun, the founder and CEO of Xiaomi Auto, SU7 Ultra owners need to focus entirely on safety and are advised to undergo formal training before entering the track.

Despite the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra boasting a power output of up to 1,526 hp and 1,770 Nm of torque, those figures are limited to 900 hp with a maximum speed of 140 km/h for the initial 300 km driving range.

At full power, the SU7 Ultra can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 1.98 seconds before reaching a top speed of 359 km/h.

Harley-Davidson Malaysia announces special promotion, save up to RM19,000

Harley-Davidson Malaysia has announced a special promotional campaign for fans of the lifestyle brand.

Starting now until March 31, 2025, Harley-Davidson customers have the opportunity to enjoy exclusive offers with savings of up to RM19,000 on select 2024 Softail models.

For the Breakout 117 model, buyers can enjoy savings of up to RM19,000, while the Low Rider ST 117 model offers savings of up to RM15,000.

Additionally, Harley-Davidson Malaysia will hold Harley Night 2025 on March 14, showcasing collector’s edition models from 2024, including:

  • Softail Standard
  • Fat Bob 114
  • Sport Glide

In conjunction with Harley Night 2025, Harley-Davidson Malaysia will make a special announcement while celebrating the iconic Fat Boy 114 model.

Harley Night 2025 will take place simultaneously at all Harley-Davidson dealerships located in Petaling Jaya, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Johor Bahru, and Kota Kinabalu.

X-Wedge set to debut in Malaysia: A new motorcycle brand inspired by American lifestyle

When it comes to high-displacement cruisers and iconic American lifestyle brands, Harley-Davidson is the name that comes to mind.

However, did you know that there is a new brand poised to compete with Harley-Davidson in the Malaysian market? Introducing X-Wedge.

For your information, X-Wedge is a motorcycle brand that originated in China under the auspices of Hisun Motors.

Hisun Motors initially started as a company responsible for producing powersports products, including utility task vehicles (UTVs) and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).

But with X-Wedge, the focus has shifted toward creating larger displacement cruiser models reminiscent of Harley-Davidson.

Interestingly, KISKA Design is responsible for the design and styling of the X-Wedge models— the same company that developed designs for GasGas, Husqvarna, and KTM motorcycles.

At the X-Wedge showroom located in Chongqing, we had the opportunity to closely examine a range of models with engine displacements ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 cc, including:

  • Ranger RX2000
  • Rover RL2000
  • Voyager VS2000
  • Walker WR1000
  • Vanguard VT2000

The majority of X-Wedge models share a common V-Twin engine with a displacement of 1,976 cc, capable of producing 102 hp at 5,000 rpm and 158 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm.

Meanwhile, the Walker WR1000 features a liquid-cooled V-Twin engine with a displacement of 975 cc, generating 80 hp at 7,500 rpm and 80 Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm.

In addition to its range of large-displacement motorcycles, X-Wedge also produces various lifestyle products, including helmets, leather jackets, riding boots, as well as accessories and customization services for motorcycle appearances.

This premium brand is expected to make its entry into the Malaysian market around July or August, through MForce Bike Holdings.

We have been informed that MForce is working to establish four X-Wedge exhibition centers located in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Johor Bahru, and Sabah.

KAMAX Cub X set to enter Malaysia, expected in August or September, priced below RM10,000

The official distributor of the Kamax brand, KTNS Holdings Sdn Bhd, is expected to introduce another model of motorcycle to the Malaysian market, namely the KAMAX Cub X 150.

This announcement was made during a recent media tour of the KAMAX exhibition center located in Jiulongpo, Chongqing.

Unlike the previously launched Super Pro motorcycle, the Cub X features a 150 cc engine that produces 9.1 hp at 7,500 rpm and 10.5 Nm of torque at 5,000 rpm.

As a cubcross machine, the Cub X comes with more aggressive specifications, including tubeless off-road tires, 17-inch spoked rims, a single seat covered in leather, and a cargo rack in place of a passenger seat.

The suspension system of the Cub X consists of 26 mm telescopic forks in the front, followed by dual shock absorbers at the rear, each offering a wheel travel of 88.9 mm and 91.4 mm, respectively.

Additional features include:

  • LED lighting system
  • LCD cluster display
  • 3.8-liter fuel tank
  • Chrome side mirrors
  • Engine protector
  • Two-channel ABS system
  • Saddle height of 790 mm
  • Smart key system

According to KTNS, this model is expected to enter the Malaysian market around August or September, with a price tag below RM10,000.

This positions the KAMAX Cub X to compete with models in its class, such as the Yamaha PG-1 and Aveta Ranger Max 130.

For more information, visit www.kamaxgroup.com.

Cyclone RE600, 58 hp/55 Nm, modern retro image, priced at RM25,888

MForce Bike Holdings is set to launch a modern retro scrambler, the RE600, complementing the models mentioned in the previous article (RT3E, RX650 & RA600).

Like the RA600 model, the RE600 also gets a 550.4 cc parallel-twin engine producing 58 hp at 8,500 rpm and 55 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm.

This motorcycle is capable of reaching a top speed of 170 km/h.

The RE600’s suspension system consists of upside-down (USD) front forks followed by a single shock absorber at the rear.

Stopping power is provided by twin brake rotors at the front and a single brake rotor at the rear, assisted by ABS and traction control system (TCS).

The retro image of this motorcycle is contributed by a round LED front lighting unit, slim LED rear light, LED turn signals, and a small windscreen.

All important information can be read via the full-color TFT display screen.

Other features include 17-inch rims, a 20-liter fuel tank, and a seat height of 800 mm.

The selling price of the Cyclone RE600 is around RM25,888 when it is launched in the middle of the year.

Cyclone RA600 cruiser showcased, priced at RM25,888

The Cyclone brand’s offerings for the Malaysian market are further enhanced this year with the RA600 cruiser, carrying a price tag of RM25,888.

The RA600 is powered by a liquid-cooled, 550.4 cc parallel-twin engine that produces 58 hp at 8,500 rpm and 55 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm.

That power is channeled to the rear wheel through a belt drive system.

The suspension setup of this motorcycle consists of telescopic forks at the front and a single shock absorber at the rear.

Featuring an aggressive appearance, this cruiser comes with front and rear LED lighting systems, a twin exhaust system, exposed handlebars, and a fairly simple round LCD digital screen panel.

Other features include 16-inch rims, mirrors at the handlebar ends, a 14.5-liter fuel tank, and a seat height of 725 mm.

MForce has announced that the selling price of the RA600 will be around RM25,888 when it is launched by the middle of this year.

Cyclone RX650 adventure touring bike set to enter Malaysia, estimated price below RM30k

In addition to the Cyclone RT3E, MForce also showcased the 650cc Cyclone RX650 adventure touring motorcycle, which is slated for the Malaysian market.

The RX650 is powered by a liquid-cooled, 650cc parallel-twin engine that produces 70 hp at 8,500 rpm and 62 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm.

The RX650 features inverted telescopic (USD) front forks and a single rear shock absorber.

The braking system includes dual front rotors and a single rear rotor, supported by ABS and traction control (TCS).

Additionally, the RX650 is equipped with features such as LED lighting, cornering ABS, a quickshifter, cruise control, blind-spot detection radar, and front and rear ride-recording camera systems.

Other features include a 20-liter fuel tank, 17-inch rims, an 820 mm seat height, an adjustable windscreen, and a full-color TFT display screen.

It is understood that the selling price of the Cyclone RX650 will start below RM30,000 when the model officially enters the Malaysian market.

MForce unveils Cyclone RT3E classic scooter, priced at RM12,888

Mforce Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd, during a visit to Zoshen factory  with Malaysian media representatives, showcased several upcoming Cyclone motorcycle models.

Among these models was the Cyclone RT3E, a scooter that evokes a classic Vespa-like aesthetic.

In terms of power, the RT3E is equipped with a 247cc single-cylinder engine that produces 26.15 hp at 8,500 rpm and 24.5 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm.

The scooter features front and rear disc brakes, supported by ABS and traction control (TCS).

Other features include a 10-liter fuel tank, a seat height of 750 mm, a digital instrument panel, LED lighting, a windscreen, left and right crash bars, a front rack, and classic whitewall tires.

The Cyclone RT3E will be priced at RM12,888 for the Malaysian market.

Toyota Land Cruiser was a favorite among thieves in Japan last year

We’re accustomed to hearing about Toyota’s success, particularly regarding sales performance and customer reliability.

However, in Japan, Toyota reportedly topped the charts for the most stolen vehicles throughout 2024, dominating the top ten spots!

According to data from the Japan General Insurance Association, the Toyota Land Cruiser (including the Prado model) has topped the list for the fourth consecutive year.

In 2024, there were 688 reported Land Cruiser thefts, accounting for 27.5 percent of every 100 vehicles stolen.

This means more than one in four vehicles stolen were Land Cruiser models.

The Alphard minivan took second place with 289 cases, followed by the Toyota Prius (235) in third. The Lexus LX ranked fourth (109), the Lexus RX fifth (89), Toyota Crown (62), Toyota Hiace (43), Toyota Vellfire (38), Lexus LS (34), and finally, the Toyota Voxy (21).

According to the data, Land Cruiser thefts in 2024 increased significantly compared to 2023 (383 cases), contributing to a total of 2,499 theft cases overall.

This Suzuki Jimny 6×4 can be a unique alternative to the Mercedes-AMG G63 6×6

This isn’t a computer-generated image; it’s a real, six-wheeled Suzuki Jimny project available for purchase as a unique addition to a personal collection.

The Suzuki Jimny 6×4 started as a three-door 2019 Jimny, imported directly from Japan.

The idea to create an alternative to the AMG G63 6×6 came about after the original owner saw a computer-generated image online.

Mocho Fabrication, a small shop in Broadway, England, was tasked with transforming the three-door Jimny into a head-turning, six-wheeled head turner.

Using original components from Suzuki, the builders successfully added custom panels to the rear, including a third axle and a pair of fender flares to match the original Jimny styling.

The entire exterior of this Jimny 6×4 is coated in Nardo Grey.

Inside, the workshop fitted a two-tone black/light gray trim to the seats and door panels, along with a Kenwood infotainment system.

According to the eBay listing, this Jimny 6×4 has only 11,075 km on the odometer, making it appear as pristine as if it had just left the showroom.

Unfortunately, this formidable-looking Jimny still relies on a naturally aspirated (NA) 1.5-liter engine producing 103 hp and 134 Nm of torque.

It retains the original four-wheel drive (4WD) system, paired with an automatic gearbox.

However, the owner plans to offer a Garrett turbo upgrade kit, including a manifold and intercooler, which could increase horsepower to 170 hp and 270 Nm.

Looking for an SUV alternative to the AMG G63 6×6?

The asking price starts from £45,000 (RM213,211). It’s a significantly cheaper option if you want a very stylish 6×6 SUV on the road.

Voge DS900X hits the Malaysian market, price RM49,998

MForce Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd has launched the Voge DS900X adventure motorcycle for the local market, carrying a price tag of RM49,998 (excluding road tax and insurance).

In terms of specifications, the Voge DS900X is powered by a 895 cc twin-cylinder engine that delivers 93.9 hp at 8,520 rpm and a torque of 95 Nm at 6,000 rpm.

There are four riding modes: Rain, Road, Sport, and Enduro, along with a standard quickshifter feature.

The suspension system consists of an inverted telescopic fork at the front, followed by a single shock absorber and a unique aluminum swingarm.

For stopping power, the motorcycle is equipped with Brembo brakes featuring dual 305 mm rotors at the front and a single 265 mm rotor at the rear, complemented by a two-channel ABS system.

Other features include a 17-liter fuel tank, a seat height of 835 mm, LED lighting units including auxiliary lights, an adjustable windscreen, and a smart key system.

All information can be displayed on a seven-inch color TFT screen.

For convenience and comfort during rides, this machine comes with USB-A and USB-C charging ports, a 12V socket, an adjustable windscreen, heated handlebars, a heated seat, a 45-liter top storage box, and two 35-liter side panniers.

Rider safety has also been prioritized with the inclusion of crash bars, handlebar protectors, a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), cruise control, and a front-facing ride recording camera.

Voge Malaysia offers an unlimited mileage warranty for a period of two years with every purchase of the DS900X.

Volvo EX90, XC90 facelift set to launch soon

Volvo Car Malaysia has announced that two models from the 90 series SUV lineup will be arriving soon: the electric SUV EX90 and the plug-in hybrid SUV XC90.

Currently, Volvo Malaysia has not announced the launch dates for either model; however, further information will be disseminated through the official website.

 

Volvo EX90

First unveiled in 2022, the Volvo EX90 is designed to be the safest vehicle ever produced by Volvo.

This seven-seater electric SUV is equipped with active safety technology aimed at reducing and preventing accidents.

It is also the first Volvo vehicle to use LIDAR technology, the first model to employ advanced computing technology, and the first equipped with hardware for full autonomous driving.

Malaysia is among the first Asia-Pacific markets to receive the Volvo EX90, following its introduction in Thailand.

 

Volvo XC90

This will be the second facelift of the Volvo XC90, introduced in 2024, featuring several cosmetic changes primarily focused on the front fascia and the infotainment system within the cabin.

It’s worth noting that the Volvo XC90 PHEV was the first plug-in hybrid vehicle manufactured in Malaysia, launched in 2016.

According to Volvo Malaysia, both flagship models offer outstanding driving range, safety, and practicality for family use.

The Volvo EX90 will join Volvo’s electric vehicle lineup, which currently includes the Volvo EX30, Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric, and the Volvo C40 Recharge Pure Electric.

Interested customers can find more information on the website: https://www.volvocars.com/my/ex90-electric.

After 18 years, Nissan finally ends GT-R sales in Japan

At the end of February 2025, Nissan Japan announced that it will terminate sales of the GT-R model (R35 generation) after almost two decades on the market.

In a statement posted on its official website, Nissan said, “We have received many orders for the Nissan GT-R and have now finished accepting orders for the planned production quantity. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all our customers for their support since its release in 2007.”

The Nissan GT-R R35 has long ceased to be offered in several key markets due to compliance issues, such as safety, noise, emissions, and more.

Markets such as Australia and New Zealand stopped selling the GT-R in October 2021, while Europe and the UK followed suit in March 2022.

The Nissan GT-R was first unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2007, and since then, it has undergone several upgrades and facelifts.

It is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine (VR38DETT) with an initial power output of 473 hp, increasing to 565 hp for the 2023 facelift model, while the Nismo version boosts that figure to 600 hp.

What will happen to the next generation of the Nissan GT-R? Will it continue the legacy left by the previous GT-R?

Or will it transform into what is envisioned through the Hyper Force Concept model?

Proton, Ezz Elarab launch CKD Saga in Egypt

Proton’s International Sales Division has announced the launch of the locally assembled (CKD) Proton Saga in Egypt, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of their partnership.

This achievement comes just three months after the inauguration of the CKD factory at Ezz Elarab Elsewedy Automotive Factories (ESAF) by Malaysia’s Prime Minister, YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, in November of last year.

According to Dr. Li Chunrong, the Chief Executive Officer of Proton, “Egypt’s strategic location and large population provide exceptional growth opportunities for Proton.”

“In 2024, Proton’s export sales increased by 31.1 percent, and Egypt played a crucial role in this achievement.”

He further explained that in addition to the Proton Saga, the company will explore opportunities to launch a range of products, including SUVs and NEVs, depending on market conditions.

The ESAF CKD factory was built with an investment of US$50 million and has an annual production capacity of 40,000 units (two shifts).

According to Eng. Amr Abu Al-Saud, Chief Executive Officer of Ezz Elarab Elsewedy Investment (ESI), mass production is set to begin in the first quarter (Q1) of 2025.

The 20-year partnership between Proton and Ezz Elarab Automotive has successfully sold over 18,000 vehicles in the Egyptian market.