The executive sedan Volvo S90 has been available in the market since 2016 as an alternative to luxury sedans from Germany.
Following an update in 2020, Volvo is once again attempting to refresh its S90 offering with a second facelift model.
As expected, it features a design approach similar to the previously facelifted SUV model, the XC90.
Changes noticeable on the exterior include new headlight units with Thor’s hammer LED graphics, a redesigned grille and bumper, and rear lights featuring hammer-shaped graphics.
Inside the cabin, the Volvo S90 is equipped with an 11.2-inch central screen that also includes over-the-air (OTA) update functionality, along with sound insulation features for a quieter cabin.
The use of adaptive suspension contributes to a higher level of comfort.
In terms of power, this facelifted S90 is available with a choice of a 2.0-liter mild hybrid engine or a PHEV version that offers a zero-emission driving range of up to 80 km.
In less favorable news, the Volvo S90 facelift will not be available in the United States and Europe; instead, Volvo will focus on selling the S90 in China and several key Asian markets.
National Motorcycle and Engine Company Sdn Bhd (MODENAS) has introduced the 250 cc scooter, the Elegan 250 EX facelift, featuring new colors and improved features.
It is offered at a price of RM17,780, which is slightly higher compared to the previous model of the Elegan 250 EX two years ago (RM16,997).
For this latest update, the Elegan 250 EX facelift comes with the following features:
A sportier windscreen
Front LED turn signals
Two new colors: Deep Blue and Plain Grey
New MODENAS logos
The scooter continues to maintain its single-cylinder 250 cc engine, delivering a power output of 22.4 hp @ 7,000 rpm and a torque of 22.4 Nm @ 6,500 rpm.
Additionally, other features include a 14-liter fuel tank, front and rear disc brake systems, ABS, front telescopic fork suspension, and twin rear shock absorbers.
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.
After making its debut in Singapore last month, the 2025 facelift version of the Tesla Model Y has officially arrived in the Malaysian market.
According to specifications provided by Tesla Malaysia, this electric SUV is available in two main variants: the RWD priced at RM195,450 and the Long Range All Wheel Drive (AWD) priced at RM242,450.
The base RWD variant offers a range of up to 466 km (WLTP data), accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds, and has a maximum speed of 201 km/h.
Meanwhile, the Long Range AWD variant allows for a driving range of up to 551 km on a full charge, with an impressive acceleration from 0-100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds.
Buyers can choose between 19-inch Crossflow wheels or upgrade to 20-inch Helix 2.0 wheels for an additional RM10,000. There are also five color options available: Stealth Grey, Pearl White Multi-Coat (+RM5,000), Glacier Blue (+RM7,500), Quicksilver, and Ultra Red (+RM11,000).
Several changes have been implemented in this facelift version of the Tesla Model Y:
Horizontal LED light bars at the front and rear inspired by the Tesla Cybertruck
Double-glazed windows for a quieter cabin
A silver film layer on the panoramic glass roof to reduce UV and heat impact
New wheel designs and a rear diffuser to decrease aerodynamic drag, enhancing driving stability and reducing noise
The cabin features ambient lighting, ventilated seats, and a display screen for the second row, similar to the Tesla Model 3
For the Malaysian market, there is also a limited edition Tesla Model Y Launch Edition available.
It features a unique badge on the rear, logoed puddle lights, the words “Launch Series” on the door sills, vegan suede trims, and special finishes on the charging console and floor mats.
Basic Autopilot features are provided as standard equipment; however, buyers can opt for the Enhanced Autopilot package (+RM16,000), which adds functionalities such as Navigate on Autopilot, Auto Lane Change, Autopark, Smart Summon, and Actually Smart Summon.
The Full Self-Driving (FSD) package is priced at RM32,000 and includes all the features available in both Basic Autopilot and Enhanced Autopilot, along with additional functionalities like Autosteer and Traffic Light & Stop Sign Control.
Production of the limited edition 911 Dakar model wrapped up last November, with only 2,500 units produced worldwide.
However, don’t be disheartened, as reports indicate that Porsche is working to reintroduce the 911 Dakar with a more powerful engine.
According to a report from Autocar citing several sources, the new Porsche 911 Dakar is currently being developed at the Weissach engineering center and will be offered in limited units.
The report also states that this “facelifted” 911 Dakar will feature an innovative T-Hybrid engine that has already debuted in several facelift variations of the 911 launched for the 2025 model year.
The T-Hybrid powertrain in question combines a brand new 3.6-liter turbo flat-six engine with an electric motor and a 1.9 kWh battery pack.
This setup is capable of producing up to 534 hp and 750 Nm of torque, significantly more powerful than the existing 3.0-liter flat-six engine with 437 hp found in the current 911 Dakar.
This increased power will help the new 911 Dakar achieve a faster 0-100 km/h acceleration time compared to the previous model’s 3.4 seconds.
For reference, the facelifted 911 GTS with the new T-Hybrid engine can accelerate from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds.
More details are expected to be announced ahead of the official launch scheduled for later this year.
Honda Malaysia has launched the facelifted version of the 11th generation Honda Civic, approximately a month after the sedan was made available for booking.
As before, the Civic is offered in four variants: E, V, RS, and e:HEV RS. The prices (OTR without insurance) are as follows:
E – RM133,900
V – RM144,900
RS – RM149,900
e:HEV RS – RM167,900
In terms of appearance, the facelifted Civic features a new, more aggressive front bumper and a larger grille. Thanks to its protruding design, the new bumper makes the C-segment sedan 3 mm longer compared to its predecessor.
There are no changes to the rear apart from the taillights, which now have a darkened smoked effect.
As for the rolling stock, the e:HEV RS variant gets new 18-inch alloy wheels, while the other variants retain their previous designs.
The design and layout of the interior remain unchanged, although there have been several updates on the equipment front.
For example, a 9-inch audio display is now included as standard across all variants. It is now equipped with Google built-in that allows users to access services such as Assistant, Maps, and Play Store.
Additionally, features such as wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, front and rear USB Type C ports, the Honda Connect telematics system, and solar film are included in all four Civic variants. The top two variants, RS and e:HEV RS, also gain wireless charging.
There are no changes under the bonnet. The petrol variants—E, V, and RS—are still powered by a 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo engine that produces 182 PS and 240 Nm, transmitted to the front wheels via a CVT gearbox.
The Civic e:HEV RS retains its hybrid powertrain, which consists of a 2.0-litre Atkinson cycle engine with 143 PS/184 Nm, and an electric motor that generates 184 PS and 315 Nm.
In addition to the Econ, Normal, and Sport driving modes, the hybrid variant now features a new Individual mode.
It also combines Active Noise Control (ANC) with Active Sound Control (ASC) to reduce outside noise while enhancing engine sound.
The Honda Sensing system, which is included as standard on all variants, offers Low Speed Follow (LSF), Lead Car Departure Notification System (LCDN), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), and Auto High Beam (AHB).
CMBS can now detect pedestrians and cyclists, while ACC accelerates and brakes more smoothly. LKAS has also been improved, providing better control when driving straight and turning.
Honda Malaysia has announced that bookings for the facelifted version of the Honda Civic are now open. According to the company, the sedan will be officially launched in January 2025.
Since its launch in 2022, the 11th generation Civic (also known as the FE) has received a positive response, with over 28,000 units sold.
The Civic has led the non-national C segment for an impressive eight consecutive years since 2016, holding a 70% market share as of October this year.
The facelifted Civic will be offered in two RS variants: the e:HEV RS and the Petrol RS. Both models feature an RS body kit but can be distinguished by the front grille extension and lower grille garnishes, which are painted in body colour for the e:HEV and in black for the petrol variant.
Additionally, the hybrid variant also comes with new 18-inch alloy wheels in a matte grey finish.
The Civic e:HEV RS is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder Atkinson cycle engine paired with an electric motor, producing a total power output of 184 PS and 315 Nm.
Meanwhile, the Petrol RS retains the 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo engine, generating 182 PS and 240 Nm.
The facelifted Civic is equipped with the Honda Sensing system, which includes nine advanced safety features, as well as the Honda Connect system to provide safety, security, and convenience integrated via smartphone connection.
In addition to the launch of the D-segment sedan, the Toyota Camry, UMW Toyota Motor has also unveiled the C-segment crossover, the 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross facelift.
Unlike the previous model, the Corolla Cross facelift features more significant design changes, particularly at the front end.
It boasts an entirely new bumper structure, a front grille with a honeycomb design, Bi-LED headlights with Lexus-style DRL graphics, and sequential turn signals.
The GR Sport variant comes with an exclusive two-tone black roof design for a sportier appearance.
The two highest variants, the 1.8 HEV and the GR Sport HEV, are powered by a 1.8-liter 2ZR-FXE engine producing 98 PS and 142 Nm, paired with a 72 PS electric motor generating 163 Nm, resulting in a combined output of 122 hp matched to an eCVT transmission.
The 1.8V variant continues to offer the 1.8-liter 2ZR-FBE engine, which produces 140 hp and 177 Nm.
Meanwhile, the cabin is equipped with a 12.3-inch digital cluster screen, a 10.1-inch audio display screen with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an electric parking brake, a vehicle telematics system, and a remote engine start function for convenience and lifestyle comfort.
In terms of safety, the Corolla Cross facelift comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 (TSS 2.0), which includes a pre-collision system, lane departure warning (LDA), lane tracing assist (LTA), dynamic radar cruise control (DRCC), and automatic high beam assistance (AHB).
Additionally, it features a blind spot monitoring system (BSM), rear cross-traffic alert (RCTA), and Drive-Start Control to prevent unintended acceleration.
The sales prices for the 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross are as follows:
With over one million units sold, the Lexus ES continues to have a dedicated fan base in the Chinese market.
The seventh generation of this luxury sedan from Japan has been updated for the second time, following its first facelift in 2021.
Officially revealed at the 2024 Guangzhou Auto Show, the Lexus ES showcases cosmetic changes, particularly in the front and rear design.
The LED matrix headlights have been reworked, now featuring a double boomerang graphic, while the front spindle grille adopts a design inspired by the Lexus RX model.
Moving to the rear, the LED taillights have also been updated with a dual L-shaped graphic, accompanied by a full-width horizontal light bar that aligns with current trends.
Inside the cabin, the Lexus ES now employs a 14-inch infotainment screen, replacing the original 12.3-inch screen, and is complemented by two knobs for climate and media controls.
The gear shift knob has also been redesigned, alongside new trim and upholstery options.
The Lexus ES continues to offer the same engine options as the pre-facelift model, with the ES 200 variant featuring a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine producing 170 hp.
Meanwhile, the ES 300h variant is powered by a 2.5-liter hybrid engine that generates a total power output of 215 hp.
The seventh generation of the Lexus ES has been on the market since 2018, and the arrival of this second facelift model is seen as a way to keep the offering fresh for several more years before the introduction of a new generation model.
There are rumors that Lexus plans to launch a fully electric sedan for the next-generation ES model.
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?
The much-anticipated seven-seater MPV model has finally been officially launched by Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, namely the 2024 Mitsubishi Xpander facelift.
This new Xpander still retains the inline-four 1,499 cc MIVEC engine capable of producing 105 PS @ 6,000 rpm and a torque of 141 Nm @ 4,000 rpm.
Power is transmitted to the front wheels through a 4-speed automatic transmission, unlike the Xpander models in the international market which are already equipped with a CVT gearbox.
In terms of dimensions, the facelifted Xpander measures 4,475 mm in length, 1,750 mm in width, 1,730 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,775 mm.
It also offers a turning radius as small as 5.2 meters and a ground clearance of 225 mm, among the best in its class.
There are two variants offered for the Malaysian market, namely the Xpander and the Xpander Plus.
As standard, both variants are equipped with modern T-shaped main headlights (front and rear), LED daytime running lights, foldable side mirrors, and two-tone 17-inch alloy rims.
Regarding the cabin space, both variants come with features such as a 4.2-inch TFT digital cluster screen, a large nine-inch central screen, support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic digital climate control buttons, a new design four-step adjustable steering wheel, and six speakers.
The base variant is only equipped with black trim on the bumpers, fabric-covered seats, and a reverse camera, while the Plus variant includes additional features such as:
-leatherette-covered seats
-360-degree surround camera system
-front and rear driving video recording cameras
-wireless device charging slot
-door visors
-rear spoiler
-scuff plate
-silver trim on the front and rear bumpers
Safety features included are two airbags, ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, Auto Hold, Hill Start Assist, Traction Control (TC), Active Stability Control (ASC), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), seatbelt reminders, and ISOFIX seat anchors.
For the Malaysian market, the 2024 Mitsubishi Xpander facelift is priced from RM99,800 to RM109,980 for a limited time until 31st Disember 2024.
Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has announced the opening of bookings for the seven-seater MPV model Mitsubishi Xpander 2024 facelift.
According to the CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, Shinya Ikeda said, “Xpander has not only gained popularity in Malaysia, but it is also popular in the ASEAN region.
“MMM introduced the Xpander to the Malaysian market in 2020, and last month we celebrated 40,000 Xpander owners on the road. As the number one non-national MPV model, the Xpander is now one of the most important models for Mitsubishi Motors,” he added.
The facelift version brings cosmetic changes, where the 2024 Xpander now features more modern and aggressive lighting units, body kits along with a rear spoiler that cater to an active lifestyle taste.
The Xpander also offers a ground clearance of 225 mm, the best in its class, and a cargo space of 837 liters when the second-row seats are folded flat.
Furthermore, the Xpander facelift comes with features such as a driving video recorder camera and an electric parking brake to enhance the overall driving experience.
For the Malaysian market, the Xpander 2024 is still powered by a 1.5-liter inline-four engine generating 105 PS and 141 Nm, paired with a four-speed automatic gearbox, compared to the CVT transmission in other ASEAN markets.
For a limited time, the Mitsubishi Xpander 2024 facelift can be pre-ordered at the price of RM115k, where the first 500 customers who place orders through the Mitsubishi Online Showroom will receive a Naturehike Camping Wagon valued at RM400.
Despite the sluggish trend in EV ownership, Hyundai has unveiled updates to its electric SUV model, the 2025 Ioniq 5.
The facelift for the 2025 model has been launched, marking the Ioniq 5 as the first model to be produced at the Metaplant Georgia.
The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 brings about cosmetic changes, such as a new bumper, revised spoiler, more aerodynamic rims, and new color options.
Minimal changes have been made to the interior, including a redesigned steering wheel, upgraded center console, and the addition of physical buttons for commonly used functions.
The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 also comes with a larger capacity battery package.
The Standard Range variant now features a 63 kWh battery (compared to the previous 58 kWh), increasing the driving range to 386 km from the previous 354 km.
Meanwhile, the Long Range variant is equipped with an 84 kWh battery, promising a range of over 499 km for the RWD version, or 451 km for the AWD version.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 also becomes the first Hyundai model to come standard with NACS (North American Charging Standard) ports, allowing Ioniq 5 owners to use Tesla’s Supercharger network without requiring an adapter.
Finally, there is a new off-road variant called the XRT, featuring unique front design, black accents, digital camouflage pattern on the bumper and fender flare, and 18-inch matte black wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires.
Moreover, the Ioniq 5 XRT now offers 23 mm greater ground clearance, red-colored tow hooks, H-Tex upholstery, and XRT logos on the seats.
Good news for those looking for a practical GR vehicle for daily use.
This is because Toyota has just updated the five-door hot hatch GR Corolla for the 2025 model year by offering an automatic gearbox as an option alongside the six-speed manual transmission variant.
The Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT) gearbox has made its official debut through the previous GR Yaris hot hatch model earlier this year.
Unlike the auto transmission found in the GR Supra and GR86, which shift gears based on speed and G-force, the GR Corolla gearbox uses input from the brake pedal and throttle to anticipate the optimal time to shift gears.
In addition, Toyota has also reprogrammed the automatic transmission to offer gear ratios almost equivalent to those of a manual transmission, in addition to coming with a standard transmission cooling system.
The G16E-GTS 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine is capable of producing up to 300 hp, with the torque figure increased from 370 Nm to 400 Nm.
All 2025 GR Corolla variants now come standard with front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials (LSD), along with a retuned suspension system for a more sporty driving experience.
For the 2025 model year, slight changes have been made to the front bumper where the GR Corolla now features improved brake cooling ducts and air curtains capable of reducing aerodynamic drag around the tires.
Toyota also offers an additional sub-radiator for extra cooling as standard for the Premium Plus model or as an option for the Premium model.
There have not been many changes made to the interior cabin, except for the addition of paddle shifters on the steering wheel, along with Launch Control system as standard for the DAT model.
Information regarding additional specifications and pricing will only be announced when the GR Corolla 2025 hits the dealerships in the upcoming winter season.
Honda North America has updated the offerings for the 2025 Civic Si variant, showcasing some cosmetic changes, a sportier chassis, and most importantly, retaining the manual transmission option!
It may be seen as an alternative to the more expensive Civic Type R, but unfortunately, the selling price of the Civic Si has increased by
$850 (RM3,972) to $29,950 (RM140k).
In terms of power, the 2025 Civic Si still retains the heartbeat of a 1.5-liter inline-four engine producing around 200 hp and 260 Nm, driving the front wheels as usual.
Certainly, the handling aspect of this ‘budget Civic Type R’ has been enhanced, now featuring a stiffer chassis including new B-pillars and door sill support.
Suspension damping components have also been recalibrated, with Honda promising improvements in terms of torsional rigidity and flexibility.
For those seeking more driving enjoyment, Honda has also enhanced the rev-match function, especially when shifting from second to first gear.
Cosmetically, what the 2025 Civic Si brings is essentially the same as the existing facelifted 2025 Civic.
However, the Civic Si has been given a set of twin-spoke black alloy wheels for a sportier look.
The cabin also receives a 9-inch infotainment display now supporting Google Assistant, along with standard support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
For the 10.2-inch digital cluster screen, exclusive graphics are available for the Civic Si model including a digital tachometer, gear change light indicator, boost gauge, and G-force meter.
Finally, the 2025 Civic Si comes equipped with a pair of snug sports seats for the driver and front passenger, in addition to standard built-in heating function.
On a less joyful note, since its introduction in 1984, the Honda Civic Si has remained an exclusive model for certain market such as United States (and Japan for a brief period), unlike the broader market reach of the Civic Type R.
VOLKSWAGEN has introduced the Golf R facelift, which not only comes with a fresher design and the latest features but also a more powerful engine.
As with the pre-facelift model, the Golf R Mk8.5 is available in both the five-door hatchback and estate (known as the Golf R Variant) guises.
At first glance, it may appear similar to the Mk8 Golf R, but the facelifted version has a fresher front fascia made up of new LED Plus headlights, larger intakes on the bumper, and illuminated LED strips and VW logo.
Customers can now opt for the available 19-inch Warmenau wheels, which the automaker claims weigh only 8 kg each and have a more efficient design for brake cooling.
Inside, you will find a 12.9-inch touchscreen display (the largest offered by Volkswagen to date) with improved operation and a 10.2-inch Digital Cockpit Pro instrument cluster with a new Sport Skin display mode.
The infotainment system now includes the voice assistant IDA, which accesses the AI-based software ChatGPT to answer questions. The responsiveness of the steering wheel touch panels has been optimised, the brand said.
Customers looking to spruce up cabin can do so by ticking the box for the Nappa leather upholstery and rear carbon fibre trim.
Like before, the Golf R Mk8.5 is powered by the EA888 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, but this time the output has been bumped up from 320 PS to 333 PS, making it the most powerful Golf ever produced.
The engine is paired with a 7-speed DSG transmission tasked with delivering power to the wheels through the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system with R-Performance Torque Vectoring.
Although torque remains at 420 Nm, the 0-100 km/h acceleration time has been cut short by 0.2 seconds to just 4.6 seconds. Needless to say, the maximum speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.
However, the figure can be increased to 270 km/h if equipped with the optional R-Performance package.
Said package also adds two more driving modes, namely Drift and Special. The former needs no explanation, while the latter is specifically adapted to the conditions on the Nürburgring Nordschleife.
Not stopping there, Volkswagen also throws in a GPS lap timer and G-meter – both of which are displayed in the Digital Cockpit Pro.
The ISUZU MU-X, which shares its underpinnings with the D-Max pickup truck, has been given a facelift in Thailand.
Still in its second generation, the MU-X now appears more snazzy thanks to sharper front and rear lights, as well as a new bumper design that incorporates an air curtain. The wheels have also been redesigned to give a sportier look.
For the 2025 model year, the MU-X is available in a new RS variant, which features a more aggressive design with a mesh grille, black painted wheels, roof, pillars, and side mirrors, as well as bright green accents around the RS logo and the wheels.
The interior showcases a new design on the instrument panel, seats, and door trims, in line with the brand’s ‘Bold and Dynamic’ design concept.
Standard features include a seven-inch digital instrument cluster, a nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a brown leather upholstery. The RS variant also receives ambient lighting.
Additionally, the MU-X is equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) that include various driver assistance and safety features depending on the variant. It also includes a ‘transparent bonnet’ feature similar to what Land Rover offers to make off-roading just a little bit easier.
There are no mechanical changes whatsoever, meaning the MU-X will retain the 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine with 148 hp and the 3.0-litre mill with 187 hp. Both are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. 4WD is offered as an option, but it is standard on the RS variant.
HONDA Malaysia has announced that it is now accepting bookings for the facelifted Honda City Hatchback, which is slated to be launched in Quarter 2 this year.
Since its launch back in December 2021, the City Hatchback remains as one of the top selling hatchback models in the Non-National segment with 10,300 units sold in 2023, bringing the total sales number to more than 28,700 units thus far.
The City Hatchback was Honda Malaysia’s second model with the e:HEV technology. Since its launch, the e:HEV RS variant has contributed 16% to Honda Malaysia’s total hybrid sales to-date.
For the facelift model, the City Hatchback features upgraded looks, which Honda Malaysia claims to be “sleeker” and “more dynamic”.
As the range-topping variant, the e:HEV RS boasts a sharper fascia thanks to the newly designed front grille and front lower grill, both adorned with honeycomb inserts, as well as the front fog garnish.
The sporty look is further accentured with a new rear bumper lower garnish, side sill garnish and new 16-inch alloy wheels in Berlina Black.
No changes to the powertrains. The e:HEV RS retains the 1.5-litre + electric motor combo which delivers 109 PS and 253 Nm, the highest torque in its class.
On the other hand, the pure ICE variants continue to feature a 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC petrol engine that pushes out 121 PS and 145 Nm, sent to the front wheels via CVT.
Fresh looks aside, the City Hatchback facelift now comes with the Honda Sensing safety and driver assistance suite as standard across the range, with the addition of Lead Car Departure Notification (LCDN). The RS also gets Low Speed Follow (LSF).
Malaysia’s Leading Automotive News | ENGEAR ENGLISH
