Category Archives: NEWS

NEWS

Express bus drivers dropping off passengers in unauthorised areas will be fined on the spot

The Kedah Road Transport Department (JPJ) has warned express bus drivers not to drop off passengers in unauthorised areas.

According to its director, Stien Van Lutam, express bus drivers caught committing the offence will be fined on the spot.

He added that so far, two violations have been detected during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2025 Special Operation, which was launched from 24 March to 8 April this year.

“JPJ personnel in disguise detected a 29-year-old bus driver who, while travelling from Ipoh to Sungai Petani, dropped off passengers in an unauthorised area or outside the bus terminal.

“Another 27-year-old express bus driver was also found committing the same offence while travelling from Alor Setar to Kelantan, in addition to overtaking on a double line,” he stated.

He remarked that dropping off passengers in prohibited areas not only endangers the passengers but also contributes to accidents and traffic congestion.

Meanwhile, Stien mentioned that the 14-day special operation involves 271 JPJ personnel throughout the state, whose leave has been suspended to ensure the smoothness and safety of road users, as well as in efforts to minimise the rate of accidents and fatalities due to road incidents.

He stated that the JPJ will continue to prioritise nine major offences, including failure to comply with speed limits, running red lights, overtaking in prohibited areas, driving in emergency lanes, and using mobile phones.

“Users returning to their hometowns are advised to remain patient while driving, not to let their emotions take over, and to ensure that their vehicles are in good condition before starting their journey to avoid any unwanted incidents,” he said.

NEWS

Sayonara, Mazda 6, 2, CX-3, and MX-30

With an exciting rotary sports car and a new generation Skyactiv engine in the pipeline, the future for Mazda looks incredibly exciting. However, it’s a bit of a bummer that several existing models are set to face the axe as early as the end of this year.

Mazda 2

First off, we have the Mazda 2, which has been around since 2014. The hatchback did receive a couple of updates in 2019 and again in 2023, but the changes felt like a drop in the ocean and simply weren’t enough to keep it relevant in the market.

Sales of the hatchback were already wrapped up in the UK last February, but those in Europe can still get the hybrid version, which is essentially a rebadged Toyota Yaris. As of now, there’s been no word on what might take its place.

Mazda CX-3

Much like the Mazda 2, the CX-3 has also been around for over a decade. The compact crossover is still available in Japan and some Asian markets, including Malaysia, but it’s been shown the door in the US and Europe.

That said, there’s still hope for the CX-3, as reports suggest that Mazda is currently working on a new generation model that will offer a hybrid engine option.

Mazda 6

The third-generation Mazda 6 is also approaching its final chapter. After being pulled from the North American market in 2021, the UK in 2023, and Japan in 2024, it’s just recently been discontinued in Australia for failing to meet safety standards.

But fear not, as the sedan already has a successor lined up, the Mazda EZ-6. Developed in collaboration with Changan using the Deepal SL03 as its basis, the EZ-6 will be available as a fully electric vehicle and a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).

Mazda MX-30

Last but not least, Mazda’s first electric vehicle, the MX-30, is also set to be axed after just five years on the market. It’s fair to say that this is not a complete shocker, considering it can only manage a mere 199 km on a full charge.

On the bright side, Mazda is still offering a range extender version known as the e-SkyActiv R-EV. Although its electric range is limited to just 85 km, this model can travel a total of 600 km thanks to its rotary engine and 50-litre fuel tank.

NEWS

PDRM receives two units of Peugeot 408 patrol car for evaluation

Who would have thought that this fierce-looking crossover sedan has now become part of the patrol car fleet of the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM)?

However, do not celebrate too soon, as the two units of the Peugeot 408 handed over by Peugeot Malaysia are merely on loan to PDRM for real-world evaluation purposes.

According to the provided images, the borrowed units are of the Allure variant.

In the Malaysian market, the Peugeot 408 has a starting price of RM146,055 and is powered by a 1.6-liter Puretech turbo engine that produces 218 PS and 300 Nm of torque.

Currently, PDRM’s patrol car fleet consists of the segment C Honda Civic sedan in its FC and FE generations.

 

 

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NEWS

Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad system hacked, reveals PMX

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has revealed that Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad’s (MAHB) system was hacked with a demand for USD 10 million (RM 44.36 million), which was promptly rejected.

“Yesterday, we discussed the cyberattack that seriously impacted MAHB. The discussion focused on how to resolve the matter, including the hackers’ demand for US$10 million.

“I didn’t wait five seconds before immediately saying no,” he said.

Anwar did not elaborate on the hacking incident involving the airport operator, but he emphasised that this incident highlights the country’s need to allocate more resources to the police and Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), among others, to prepare for combating hackers.

Anwar further stated that Malaysia would not be safe if its leadership and systems allowed the country to succumb to the ultimatums of criminals and traitors, both domestic and foreign.

He remarked that the decision to not capitulate to the hackers’ demands would undoubtedly pose risks to the government but it underscores the necessity to enhance the capabilities of the authorities, including the banking sector.

NEWS

Honda CB1000F Concept unveiled at the 2025 Osaka Motorcycle Show

At the 41st Osaka Motorcycle Show 2025 held at INTEX Osaka, Honda showcased the CB1000F Concept for the first time.

Although it is still designated as a concept, the design of the Honda CB1000F suggests that it is ready for mass production.

It also reminds us of the CB-F Concept design presented five years ago.

However, unlike the CB-F, which was built on the CB1000R platform, the CB1000F shares the same chassis as the CB1000 Hornet.

What’s the difference? The CB1000F features a steel frame and a twin-sided swingarm, compared to the CB-F, which uses an aluminum frame and a single-sided swingarm.

Additionally, the CB1000F is equipped with a 150 hp inline-four engine derived from the Fireblade, along with Showa SFF-BP front forks and Nissin brakes, which are also found on the Hornet model.

The Honda CB1000F also boasts a new subframe designed to fit its retro proportions, complemented by a large chrome exhaust canister.

While adhering to a retro concept, the Honda CB1000F also includes modern features such as a single rear shock absorber, inverted forks, radial brakes, LED lighting, and a TFT display.

Once in production, the Honda CB1000F is poised to compete strongly against existing neo-retro models in the market, such as the Kawasaki Z900RS and Yamaha XSR900.

EV, NEWS

Hyundai Insteroid is what happens when a tiny EV gets a dose of steroid

Introduced for the first time in June last year, the Hyundai Inster is a rather cutesy subcompact electric vehicle.

Soon, it will have a more aggressive and ferocious-looking twin known as the Insteroid.

According to Hyundai, the name Insteroid is derived from a combination of ‘Inster’ and ‘Steroid’. While full reveal will only happen sometime in early April, this official teaser provides a glimpse of the model’s design.

From what we can see, the Insteroid features round headlights and the brand’s signature pixel LED lights similar to the Inster. But beyond that, it is an entirely different machine.

This is due to the Insteroid being fitted with a wide body kit and a massive rear spoiler designed based on racing video games. To these eyes, it looks exactly like a WRC car.

Additionally, the Insteroid boasts a roof scoop, air vents on the wheel arches, a prominent rear diffuser, and 21-inch disc wheels. The interior has yet to be revealed, but it is clear that space has been stripped out to make room for a roll cage.

The technical specifications of the Insteroid are also still unknown but given that it is equipped with a Boost button and Track mode, it is undoubtedly more powerful and exciting to drive compared to the car it’s based on.

As a refresher, the Inster, which Hyundai claims is enjoying strong sales in South Korea and Europe, is powered by a single electric motor delivering 97 PS in the Standard version or 115 PS in the Long Range version.

EV, NEWS

Chery Omoda E5 now priced RM27,000 lower at RM119,818

The Chery Omoda E5 came with a price tag of RM146,800 when it was launched in Malaysia back in March last year. Now, you can own this electric crossover for under RM120,000.

More specifically, the Omoda E5 is now available at an on-the-road price (excluding insurance) of RM119,818, meaning customers can enjoy savings of RM27,000.

However, hold your horses as this attractive offer coincides with the upcoming Aidilfitri celebrations and is limited to units manufactured only in 2024.

To further sweeten the deal, Chery Malaysia is also including a free wallbox charger valued at RM3,500, a free Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) cable valued at RM500, and RM1,000 in charging credit.

On top of that, owners can also charge their Omoda E5s for free at all Chery dealerships throughout the country.

The Omoda E5 is propelled by a single electric motor on the front axle, generating 201 hp and 340 Nm of torque. The motor gets its juice from a 61 kWh battery pack that promises a driving range of up to 430 km based on the WLTP cycle.

In addition to AC charging at 9.9 kW, the battery supports DC charging of up to 80 kW, which can replenish battery power from 30% to 80% in just 28 minutes.

The EV price war heats up in Malaysia

In addition to the Omoda E5, buyers with the budget of under RM150,000 can opt for the BYD Atto 3 Ultra, which is priced at RM123,800, representing a reduction of RM26,000 compared to the 2024 model. This does not include a cash rebate of RM5,000 for the first 1,000 buyers.

Both models will go toe to toe with the best-selling EV in Malaysia for the month of February, the Proton eMAS 7. This EV is available at a price of RM105,800 for the Prime variant and RM119,800 for the Premium variant, after discounting a cash rebate of RM4,000 offered to the first 6,000 buyers.

NEWS

30 schools to participate in Toyota Eco Youth 2025 for RM167,000 rewards

UMW Toyota Motor has officially announced the opening of registrations for the annual Toyota Eco Youth 2025 event.

Supported by the Ministry of Education Malaysia (MOE), this initiative encourages secondary school students nationwide to develop innovative and sustainable solutions to environmental issues.

This year’s 24th edition doubles the number of participants to 30 schools, increasing the funding to RM167,000, with each selected school receiving a grant of RM3,000.

Students will also have the chance to compete for cash prizes totaling RM77,000 across various categories: RM30,000 for the champion, RM20,000 for the first runner-up, RM10,000 for the second runner-up, and RM5,000 each for sub-categories such as Best Social Media Campaign, Best Presentation, and Best Exhibition, as well as RM2,000 for the Best Advisor Teacher category.

Since its introduction in 2001, Toyota Eco Youth (TEY) has benefited nearly 600 schools and more than 300,000 students across Malaysia, guiding them in developing critical skills to drive change within their communities.

The effectiveness of this annual program is evident as TEY participants successfully present innovative ideas that can be translated into real projects that have a positive impact on society.

For example, a group of students developed a system that not only reduces agricultural waste but also improves local waste disposal methods, enhancing community health and environmental sustainability in Kuala Bikam.

In Penang, marine pollution issues have been addressed through community-based cleaning programs that help restore the marine ecosystem.

In Sarawak, a group of students introduced sustainable agricultural practices that reduce reliance on harmful chemicals, while promoting long-term environmental conservation efforts.

All these successes stem from the unique application of Toyota’s 8-Step Problem Solving Methodology (PSM), which equips students with systematic problem-solving skills that enable them to identify issues in-depth, understand root causes, and devise practical and sustainable solutions.

“Toyota Eco Youth is not just about raising awareness of environmental issues—it’s about taking action,” said Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor.

“By doubling the number of participating schools and allocating a larger fund, we are offering more opportunities for students to devise innovative solutions that can propel Malaysia towards a more sustainable future.

“We are excited to see how this year’s participants will create change and inspire the community with their ideas,” he added.

Interested schools can register at the link https://bit.ly/TEY2025_RegisterNow before April 3, 2025, while the official launch event, workshops, and opening ceremony will take place from April 28 to April 30, 2025.

NEWS

All engine oils must have genuine certification from SIRIM starting April 7

Starting from April 7, the government will enforce the Trade Descriptions Order (Certification and Marking of Engine Oil for Motor Vehicles) 2024 in its efforts to curb the sale of counterfeit motor vehicle engine oil.

Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali stated that with this new order, consumers will be able to identify the sale of genuine motor vehicle engine oil, thus curbing the sale of counterfeit oil which can pose safety risks and lead to road accidents.

“This new order will be able to protect the the interests of motor vehicle engine oil product companies by curbing the risks of production of non-genuine products by irresponsible parties,” he said.

Armizan mentioned that any engine oil product, whether produced domestically or imported, must obtain genuine certification through SIRIM QAS International Sdn Bhd, which has been appointed as the responsible body to certify and issue product compliance labels for this purpose.

The government is allowing a six-month period for manufacturers to comply with the directives regarding the gazette order starting on October 11, 2024.

“KPDN in collaboration with SIRIM has been organising engagement programmes since 2022 involving almost all major players in the motor vehicle engine oil industry in the country. Strict action will be taken against any importing company, distributor, or seller who sells uncertified products and does not have valid compliance label from the authorities,” said Armizan.

NEWS

40% of our new clients are aged 40 and below – Ferrari CEO

Many people dream of owning a Ferrari (myself included) but not everyone has the financial means to turn their dreams into reality.

“Those who are able to splurge millions of ringgit on the supercar from Maranello are typically in their mid-life because, unless they come from a wealthy family, accumulating six figures in their bank account can take ages.

Nevertheless, recently, Ferrari has become increasingly popular among younger buyers.

Speaking to CNBC, Ferrari chief executive officer Benedetto Vigna revealed that 40% of the brand’s new buyers are under the age of 40.

The figure mentioned by Vigna represents a significant increase of 10% compared to 18 months ago.

“I’m not sure about other brands, but for us, it is an achievement thanks to our team,” he added.

The figure can be considered surprising, given that Ferrari is a brand that puts exclusivity before everything else.

Last year, Fortune reported that 81% of new Ferraris were sold to existing customers, with 48% of those already owning more than one Ferrari.

For this writer, however, this is not particularly surprising, as we can see that an increasing number of young people are becoming wealthy by jumping on the cryptocurrency and content creation bandwagons.

Then there are also the young professional athletes and celebrities who enjoy collecting luxury cars like Ferraris.

NEWS

This Toyota GR Supra final edition features more upgrades than Malaysian spec Supra

First revealed in November last year, Toyota Gazoo Racing has officially announced the sales of the GR Supra A90 Final Edition for the Japanese market.

Only 300 units of this Final Edition model will be produced, with 150 units allocated for the Land of the Rising Sun, and the remaining units will be sold in the European market.

What makes the GR Supra A90 Final Edition particularly special is the standard features it offers directly from the factory, compared to the regular GR Supra model.

In terms of performance, the GR Supra A90 Final Edition is equipped with a B58 engine that has been upgraded to deliver 441 PS and 571 Nm of torque, compared to the standard 387 PS and 500 Nm.

Toyota has also optimized the intake and cooling systems, culminating in a titanium Akrapovic exhaust unit.

Moreover, the chassis of the GR Supra has been reinforced with the addition of brace structures in several locations, followed by front and rear stabilizer bars crafted from reinforced aluminum.

KW adjustable suspension is utilized at all four corners, with the camber angle adjusted for both the front and rear wheels.

Contributing to improved handling are the active differential control and an optimized electronic steering system.

The 19-inch front and 20-inch rear aluminum rims are fitted with wider Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, which are 10 mm wider than the standard settings.

The exterior appearance of the GR Supra A90 Final Edition is enhanced by carbon fiber components like the front spoiler and canards, along with a “ducktail” rear wing.

Inside the cabin, there are full Recaro Podium CF bucket seats, red seatbelts, and extensive carbon fiber and Alcantara trim that dominate the interior space.

With the improvements offered in this model, it’s no surprise that Toyota has set a sales price of approximately 15,000,000 yen (RM 443,000), which is higher than that of the GR Supra RZ grade.

Interested parties can register at all GR Garage locations across Japan starting April 13; however, buyers will be selected via a lottery system. Winners (a.k.a the rightful owners) will be announced on May 9.

EV, NEWS

Proton e.MAS7 convoy covers 9,000 km across 9 ASEAN countries for 2025 Malaysia Autoshow

The Proton e.MAS7 convoy, along with four X Series vehicles showcased by Proton and Pro-Net, embarked on a journey spanning 9,000 km last Thursday (March 20).

The ASEAN Unity Drive 2025 (AUD 2025) is an initiative that highlights Malaysia’s leadership in driving green mobility, cross-border collaboration, and automotive innovation across Southeast Asia.

The Proton e.MAS7 has been chosen as the official vehicle for AUD 2025, symbolizing Malaysia’s commitment to electric mobility and supporting the national EV agenda and broader ASEAN sustainability goals.

Two main routes have been planned:

  • Northern Route: Starting in Hanoi, Vietnam, passing through Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand before arriving in Malaysia.
  • Southern Route: Starting in Manila, Philippines, through Sabah, Brunei, Sarawak, Indonesia, and Singapore before reaching Malaysia.

The AUD 2025 convoy will converge at the Malaysia Autoshow 2025 (MAS 2025), which will take place at MAEPS, Serdang from May 9 to 15.

The launch ceremony was held at the MITI Tower and officiated by the Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry, YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz.

“The ASEAN Unity Drive 2025 represents the collective strength of the region in advancing sustainable mobility while reinforcing economic integration and environmental management.

“Malaysia, through initiatives such as the ASEAN Automotive Institute Alliance, is committed to forming a unified mobility ecosystem that accelerates innovation, aligns standards, and strengthens ASEAN’s position as a global leader in next-generation transportation.

“This initiative is a significant step towards a future-ready automotive industry and brings benefits to the entire region,” he added.

In addition to the launch of new models and exhibitions of EV and ICE technology, this year’s MAS 2025 will feature a Women in Automotive segment, a Career Day exhibition, and the ASEAN Automotive Debate.

A total of 55 leading brands are scheduled to participate in the Malaysia Autoshow 2025, which is expected to attract a larger audience compared to previous editions.

EV, NEWS

Nepal becomes first international market for Proton eMAS 7

Proton has made its debut in the international electric vehicle (EV) market with the launch of the Proton eMAS 7 in Nepal.

According to the automaker, the launch follows the model’s strong performance in Malaysia since its debut on December 16 and helps to pave the way of a broader international strategy.

In the Nepalese market, the eMAS 7 is distributed by the brand’s authorised distributor, Jagdamba Motors. Similar to Malaysia, it is available in Prime and Premium guises, priced at NPR 5,699,000 (RM 183k) and NPR 6,799,000 (RM 218k), respectively.

There are six colours to choose from, namely Platinum Silver, Turquoise Green, Slate Grey, Quarts Rose, Moyu Black, and Lithium White. Notably, Moyu Black is not offered in Malaysia.

Aside from the addition of the black colour, the specifications of the eMAS 7 for the Nepali market are the same as those for the Malaysian market. The Prime variant comes with a 49.52 kWh Aegis Short Blade battery that promises a WLTP range of 345 km, whereas the Premium variant, equipped with a 60.22 kWh battery, offers a range of 410 km.

According to Proton, the eMAS 7 embarked on a tour in Nepal from February 21 to March 4, prior to its official launch. The tour covered all seven provinces and included 18 stops, such as Janakpur, Birtamod, and Itahari.

The company said its entry to the market is timely and aligns well with Nepal’s Green Mobility Vision. Over the past four years, the EV penetration rate in the country has increased from 6% of its total industry volume (TIV) in 2021 to 73% in 2024, equivalent to a nine-fold increase from 1,138 units to 10,794 units during that period.

Currently, Jagdamba Motors has three operational dealers, with plans to finalise agreements with 12 dealers nationwide by the end of 2025. It also has plans to establish charging infrastructures and build a robust service center network nationwide.

“Nepal is just the beginning. Plans are already in motion to introduce the Proton eMAS 7 to other international markets to support the brand’s global growth ambitions,” said Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer, Proton.

“Going forward, we will be bringing our EV model to Trinidad & Tobago, Mauritius as well as Singapore,” he added.

NEWS

BMW C400 X, C400 GT updated for 2025, priced from RM47,500

BMW Motorrad Malaysia today launched the 2025 model year BMW C400 X and C400 GT, featuring technical improvements as well as new features, colours, and accessories.

The core of the C400 X and C400 GT remains unchanged, meaning both are still powered by a 350 cc single-cylinder engine capable of producing 34 hp at 7,500 rpm and 35 Nm at 5,750 rpm. It is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that promises smooth and responsive performance.

That being said, both mid-sized premium scooters are now equipped with ABS Pro as standard, ensuring optimum safety even when braking at a lean angle.

Meanwhile, the Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) function linked to the ABS Pro provides sensitive response, as well as high braking and driving stability with the best possible deceleration even when cornering.

Also included are Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and Engine Drag Torque Control (MSR). The former offers even more safety when accelerating at a lean angle or in slippery road conditions, while the latter prevents unstable riding conditions that can occur during coasting or abrupt throttle reduction.

Now, on to connectivity. The C400 X features a 6.5-inch TFT display along with the BMW Motorrad Connected app, allowing the display to be linked to the multi-controller on the left handlebar.

The C400 GT, on the other hand, boasts a 10.25-inch TFT display as part of the Connectivity Pro package, offering split-screen functionality and map navigation.

Both models also come with navigation preparation as an option, allowing riders to easily integrate the BMW Motorrad Connected Ride Navigator or Connected Ride Cradle for enhanced navigation capabilities.

In addition to the equipment, BMW Motorrad has also improved practicality on both models. The C400 X now provides an additional 3 liters of storage under the seat, while the C400 GT offers up to 12 liters of additional storage, including front pockets. The Gran Turismo version is also equipped with a manually adjustable windshield.

A luggage gird is provided as standard on both the X and GT but customers can also opt for a 43.5-litre storage box as an additional accessory, which not only provides 13.5-litres more volume than before but offers a 10 kg payload compared to the previous 5 kg.

The new top case also features electrification, in the form of interior lighting and a USB charging port. Other new features include keyless ride and Headlight Pro on the X.

On top of that, the C400 X is now available in a Rugged variant, featuring a Kalamata metallic matte body colour, red and black seating, red rims, and off-road tyres. This version also comes with footboard inlays, golden front brake calipers and heavily tinted windshield.

The C400 GT, meanwhile, is offered in an Exclusive variant with a Diamond White metallic body, golden rims, seat seam/embroidery in rim colour, floor lighting or footboard inlays, golden front brake calipers and slightly tinted windshield.

The retail price (on the road, with BMW Motorrad Malaysia’s all-new 3-year warranty and 3-year roadside assistance programmes, without insurance) is RM47,500 for the C400 X and RM53,500 for the C400 GT.

NEWS

Mitsubishi XForce HEV debuts in Thailand – will it enter Malaysia?

Mitsubishi Motors has just launched the new XForce HEV variant, featuring the same hybrid engine setup found in the Xpander HEV MPV.

This e:Motion powertrain includes an electric motor capable of generating 116 hp and 255 Nm of torque, complemented by a re-tuned 1.6-liter Atkinson cycle engine (4A92) that produces 107 hp and 134 Nm of torque.

According to Mitsubishi, the XForce HEV boasts a newly developed two-speed transaxle, along with a function that disconnects the electric motor from the drive axle at high speeds.

This new feature aims to reduce energy loss while contributing to a fuel consumption rate of 24.4 km/liter (4.1 liters/100 km).

Similar to modern hybrid systems available on the market, the XForce HEV also provides an EV driving mode.

Additionally, there are other driving modes including Normal, Wet, Gravel, Tarmac, Mud, and a special EV Charge mode that can be used to recharge the battery.

Visually, there are not many differences between the XForce HEV and the ICE variant, apart from the presence of the HEV badge with blue accents, clear-lens rear lights, and the word “XFORCE” on the engine hood.

Furthermore, it features aerodynamic 18-inch alloy wheels and sits lower (183 mm) compared to the standard XForce (222 mm).

Inside the cabin, there is an 8-inch digital display and a 12.3-inch Display Audio screen integrated into a single panel, followed by a premium Yamaha audio system with eight speakers and connectivity to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Mélange fabric is used on the dashboard for a more luxurious appearance.

In terms of safety, the XForce HEV is equipped with advanced driver assistance systems, including Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Front Collision Mitigation (FCM), Automatic High Beam (AHB), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Lane Change Assistance (LCA), and Blind Spot Warning (BSW).

Additionally, the vehicle includes an Active Yaw Control (AYC) system that enhances handling on the road.

In the Thai market, the XForce HEV is priced starting from THB 899,000 (RM 117,502).

The question remains, will this HEV variant be offered in the Malaysian market this year?

NEWS

Registration for the 2025 Porsche Esports Sprint Challenge Malaysia now open

Porsche Malaysia, represented by Sime Darby Auto Performance, has announced the organization of the Porsche Esports Sprint Challenge Malaysia for the second consecutive year, aimed at young talents.

There are three age categories in which sim racers aged 10 to 24 years old are eligible to participate in this challenge.

Three knockout rounds will determine the fastest racers who qualify for the next round, with the final round taking place concurrently with the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia race on June 8, 2025.

Online registration will be open from March 20 to April 16 via the website https://pescm.porsche.com.my/, where each participant will be required to select a Porsche Centre location should they qualify for Round 2.

For 2025, the Porsche Esports Sprint Challenge Malaysia will utilize the RaceRoom Racing Experience platform on Steam, featuring the racetracks used by the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia.

The first qualifying round (10-minute time trial) will be conducted online and at Porsche Centres across Malaysia from April 12 to April 20, where participants may choose to join the challenge from their homes.

Round 2 will take place at the following locations:

  • Porsche Centre Ara Damansara: April 26-27, 2025
  • Porsche Centre Johor Bahru: May 3-4, 2025
  • Porsche Centre Penang: May 10-11, 2025
  • Porsche Centre Sungai Besi: May 17-18, 2025

In Round 2, each participant will receive a personal coaching session, followed by a 10-minute practice session.

The top 10 participants from each category who achieve the fastest lap times at each Porsche Centre will advance to the final qualifying round on May 25-26, 2025, at Bangsar Shopping Centre.

The top 10 finalists from each category will progress to the final round, which will be held at the Sepang International Circuit on June 8, 2025, using a sprint race format virtually at the Sepang International Circuit PETRONAS.

Three racers who secure a podium finish during the final championship will have the opportunity to experience driving a real Porsche on the Sepang circuit.

Winners under the age of 18 will be able to share this meaningful experience with a parent or guardian.

Interested participants can register or learn more by visiting this website: https://bit.ly/pescm-registration.

 

NEWS

CFMoto 700MT lands in Malaysia – priced at RM33,888

CFMoto Malaysia has just launched its latest adventure touring machine, the 700MT, for the Malaysian market, with a price tag of RM33,888 (excluding insurance, road tax, and registration).

In terms of power, the 2025 700MT is powered by a 693 cc twin-cylinder engine that produces 67 hp at 9,500 rpm and a torque of 60 Nm at 6,000 rpm.

The CFMoto 700MT is equipped with an adjustable suspension system, featuring 43 mm inverted front forks with a wheel travel of 150 mm, followed by a single shock absorber with a wheel travel of 148 mm.

The braking system utilizes dual 300 mm rotors at the front, complemented by a single 240 mm rotor at the rear.

Riding assistance features include a dual-channel ABS, traction control system (TCS), and a tire pressure monitoring system.

The bike also comes with a five-inch TFT display that supports Google Maps navigation.

Other features include an adjustable windscreen, heaters for the seat and handlebar grips, an 800 mm seat height, and a 20-liter fuel tank designed for a range of up to 400 km.

NEWS

Benda Chinchilla 500 cruiser officially launched in Malaysia – RM27,888

MForce Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd, the official distributor of the Benda motorcycle brand, has launched the latest Chinchilla 500 cruiser, joining the two existing models available in Malaysia.

Unlike the previously launched Napoleon Bob 500, the Chinchilla 500 presents a more conventional cruiser design, complete with seating for a passenger.

The Benda Chinchilla 500 is powered by a liquid-cooled 475.6 cc SOHC V-twin engine that produces 47 hp at 9,000 rpm and 42 Nm of torque at 7,200 rpm.

This engine is paired with a six-speed transmission, a belt final drive system, and a slipper clutch.

The cruiser’s chassis is supported by a suspension system consisting of a 41 mm upside-down fork at the front (with a wheel travel of 129 mm) and twin shock absorbers at the rear with preload adjustment (with a wheel travel of 65 mm).

The braking system features a four-piston caliper and a 320 mm single floating brake rotor at the front, while at the rear, it uses a two-piston caliper and a 260 mm rotor.

Standard equipment includes a complete LED lighting system, as well as safety features such as two-channel ABS and traction control.

Additionally, there is a simple round cluster screen mounted on the handlebar, a 16-liter fuel tank, and a seat height of 705 mm.

In the Malaysian market, the Benda Chinchilla 500 is priced at RM27,888.

NEWS

Catch the Jaecoo J8 at 1Utama from March 27-30

Jaecoo Malaysia has confirmed that the Jaecoo J8 will make its public debut in the country at a roadshow to be held at 1Utama from March 27 to 30.

While this will be the first time the public has the chance to see the J8, we have already seen the SUV in person when it was showcased alongside the J7 in January 2024, albeit in a left-hand drive version.

At that time, the J8 was slated for launch in the fourth quarter of the same year but this did not happen, and instead, the Omoda C9 was launched in December.

Nevertheless, with the announcement of this roadshow, we can confidently say that the J8 will officially enter the Malaysian market in a few months.

The specifications for the J8 for our market have yet to be disclosed, but what we do know is that the J8 has a larger footprint compared to the J7, measuring 4,820 mm in length, 1,930 mm in width, 1,699 mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2,820 mm.

Inside, elements inspired by the Mercedes-Benz GLE can be seen in the square air vents and the large widescreen unit, which features two 12.3-inch displays sitting atop the dashboard.

Under the bonnet of the J8 lies a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine that generates 245 hp and 385 Nm, transmitted to the wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. This model will be available in either two-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, though it is still uncertain whether Jaecoo Malaysia will offer one or both options.

The pricing has also yet to be revealed, but there are rumours suggesting it will be sold at around RM200,000.

NEWS

2025 Honda CBR150R arrives in Malaysia with new Honda Tricolor liveries – RM13,399

Boon Siew Honda has announced the release of the CBR150R featuring a new Honda Tricolor color scheme, inspired by the racing DNA present in the CBR1000RR-R, CBR650R, and CBR250RR.

In addition to the Honda Tricolor, the CBR150R is also available in a Silver option, enhanced with bright yellow accents.

In terms of specifications, the Honda CBR150R is powered by a single-cylinder 149.2 cc engine, generating 16 hp at 9,000 rpm and 13.7 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. It is paired with a six-speed transmission and features an assist and slipper clutch.

The motorcycle maintains a front inverted fork suspension setup, along with a single rear shock absorber, 17-inch wheels, front and rear disc brakes, a dual-channel ABS system, a digital meter panel, and LED lights.

Other features include a fuel tank capacity of 12 liters and a seat height of 788 mm.

The Honda CBR150R 2025 is available starting March 19 at all authorized Honda dealers and IMPIAN X across the country, with a price tag of RM13,399 (excluding road tax, insurance, and registration).