UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has forged a strategic partnership with the Ministry of Transport Malaysia (MOT) to drive green mobility initiatives.
As a show of strong support, UMWT has delivered five electrified vehicles, including hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) such as the Toyota Alphard, Camry, and Corolla Cross, as well as two battery electric vehicles (BEVs), the Toyota bZ4X and Lexus RZ.
Through this initiative, the MOT has the opportunity to assess the true capabilities of these vehicles concerning suitability, performance, and benefits for daily use.
Additionally, UMWT will provide comprehensive hands-on learning opportunities for MOT officials, covering aspects from infrastructure readiness, user experience to operational efficiency across various platforms.
According to Datuk Ravindran K, President of UMW Toyota Motor, “Malaysia’s journey towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 is not just an empty vision, but a collective mission that demands close collaboration across all sectors.”
“Through the ‘Multipathway Toyota’ approach, electrification is not merely viewed as an innovation, but is also adapted in an inclusive and pragmatic manner according to the needs, readiness, and capabilities of various segments of society.”
“With this approach, every layer of society is given the opportunity to move forward together towards a greener and more sustainable future—no one will be left behind, no one will be marginalized,” he further stated.
While full electrification remains a long-term aspiration for the country, hybrid technology emerges as an effective solution to minimize carbon emissions without requiring drastic changes to existing infrastructure or consumer habits.
According to Mohd Shamsor Mohd Zain, Executive Director of UMW Toyota Motor, “Hybrid technology continues to be a key driver in Toyota’s electrification plan, particularly in the context of markets like Malaysia.”
“Its ability to reduce carbon emissions immediately without necessitating major changes to the supporting ecosystem makes it the most ideal option.”
“It not only offers practical solutions but also builds confidence among mainstream consumers while paving a smoother and more progressive path towards a fully electric mobility future.”
In addition to the launch of the automatic variant of the GR Yaris, UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has also announced the availability of the latest Gazoo Racing model, the Toyota GR Supra Track Edition.
Unlike the standard GR Supra model, the Track Edition variant promises a more exhilarating driving experience, thanks to upgrades in the chassis, handling, and aerodynamics.
The Toyota GR Supra Track Edition is powered by a three-liter inline six-cylinder turbo engine that produces 388 PS and 500 Nm of torque, with an option for a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Acceleration from 0-100 km/h is as quick as 4.1 seconds, or 4.3 seconds for the manual version.
What makes driving the GR Supra Track Edition even more exciting is the use of adaptive suspension system tuned for more effective grip, along with a Track Edition-exclusive recalibration of the power steering system and limited-slip differential (LSD).
The braking system has been upgraded to larger 374 mm front rotors, assisted by Brembo four-piston calipers.
Additionally, enhanced aerodynamic features include wider wheel arches, aero fins, and a carbon fiber ducktail spoiler for increased downforce.
Moreover, Toyota has strengthened the front control arms and adjusted the front negative camber for more agile handling, accompanied by upgraded bushings and sway bars for sharper handling response.
The Toyota GR Supra Track Edition comes with 19-inch matte black alloy wheels fitted with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires.
For the cabin, it features black leather and Alcantara upholstery with GR logo stitching, red seatbelts, a JBL sound system with 12 speakers, a colored head-up display, and a special gear knob for the manual GR Supra.
Standard safety features included in this sports car comprise pre-collision warning, lane departure warning with steering assist, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and emergency braking.
In the Malaysian market, the GR Supra Track Edition is priced starting at RM698,000.
UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has announced the arrival of the Toyota GR Yaris facelift hot hatch, which is now available in an 8-speed automatic variant.
The introduction of this model complements the previously launched manual version of the Toyota GR Yaris facelift during the conclusion of the seventh season of the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival in Malaysia.
The GR Yaris continues to feature the 1.6-liter inline 3-cylinder turbo engine, G16E-GTS, which now produces 300 PS and 400 Nm of torque.
With the newly paired automatic DAT transmission, the GR Yaris can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds.
This high-performance engine is also equipped with a standard cooling package, which includes a sub-radiator, intercooler spray, and a combination of air and fluid ATF coolers to ensure consistent performance, especially under Malaysia’s hot weather.
Additionally, this Automatic variant of the GR Yaris introduces new features such as Launch Control and paddle shifters, which have been fine-tuned based on motorsport experience to provide a more exciting driving experience for everyday journeys.
Finally, it comes with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes pre-collision warnings, radar cruise control, lane tracing assistance (LTA), and Expert Mode for drivers seeking a more dynamic control without completely disabling the vehicle stability system.
For the Malaysian market, the Toyota GR Yaris AT is priced at RM325,600 and is available at all GR Garage dealers nationwide.
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.
UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT) continues its strong performance in the Malaysian automotive market with total sales of 5,383 units for the month of January 2025.
With an unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, UMWT says it is well-positioned to build on this momentum as the year progresses.
Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor said the company’s strong start to 2025 reflects its dedication to delivering exceptional vehicles that meet the evolving needs of customers.
“This achievement is a testament to the trust our customers place in us, and we remain dedicated to exceeding expectations by delivering advanced vehicles and unparalleled ownership experiences.
“With continuous innovation and exciting new models, we are committed to shaping the future of mobility in Malaysia,” he added.
Central to this effort is the Gazoo Racing (GR) brand, which has been expanded with the launch of the 2025 GR Yaris, GR Corolla and Corolla GR Sport during the Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) Season 7 closing ceremony recently.
UMWT says the GR brand has been well-received by both driving enthusiasts and mainstream customers, reinforcing its position as Toyota’s dedicated performance division.
In the meantime, UMWT is making 2025 even more exciting with attractive promotional savings, including promos worth up to RM8,500, with a monthly payment from as low as RM658.
Additionally, the Toyota Service Savers programme continues to provide peace of mind with cost-effective maintenance plans starting at just RM33 per month.
Buyers in Malaysia seeking a B-segment sedan are quite fortunate, as we are presented with several attractive models including the Honda City, MG5, Nissan Almera, Proton Persona, and not to forget the Toyota Vios.
This segment is precisely suitable for those looking to upgrade to a larger daily vehicle after enjoying the experience of using a budget hatchback.
It offers a comfortable cabin for the whole family, ample cargo space, and a variety of modern technologies in line with current developments.
Most importantly, the annual road tax costs remain within the financial reach of most buyers.
The Toyota Vios was officially launched in 2023, but at that time, many may not have been fully receptive to its somewhat aggressive design.
However, the Vios has certainly found a place in the hearts of netizens, as it became one of the 10 most popular models in Malaysia for 2024, trailing the Honda City by just 1,900 units.
After two years have passed, is the Vios still worth owning in 2025? If you ask us, the answer is: Yes!
Here are five reasons why we believe the Vios should be considered by young people.
1. More Premium Appearance
In the past, the Vios had a rather ordinary sedan appearance. In fact, one generation of the Vios was likened to a dugong due to its round design.
However, this new generation of the Vios presents a bolder look, reminiscent of larger Toyota sedans like the Corolla and Camry.
Have you noticed that the front design of the Vios notably features elements inspired by the hammerhead shark, even before Toyota popularized it through models like the Prius and Crown?
The fastback sedan design, 17-inch wheels, diffuser, aerodynamic elements, and body kit contribute to the aggressive aesthetic of this sedan.
More importantly, the Vios can now proudly stand alongside the two sedans mentioned earlier.
2. More Fun to Drive
The Vios is not just a new exterior; it now boasts a foundation built on a brand-new platform developed in collaboration with Daihatsu.
The Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA-B) platform, shared with models like the Perodua Alza/Toyota Veloz, provides significant benefits in terms of handling and comfort.
In short, the Vios is now more enjoyable to drive compared to its predecessors!
The author personally tested the harmonious tuning of steering, suspension, and chassis recently on a trip back to their hometown.
The improved driving dynamics are attributed to the more precise steering response, offering more feedback in any situation.
It is very easy to anticipate the sedan’s body movements, particularly when driven a bit aggressively, aided by well-tuned suspension that ensures stability on winding roads.
At times, the author found it exhilarating to tackle every curve before being reminded by the lane departure warning system (LDW) present in the Vios.
What about the engine performance?
As you may know, the Vios is equipped with a 1.5-liter engine producing 104 hp and 138 Nm of torque — on paper, this seems less powerful compared to competing models.
Yes, we admit there is still some engine noise that enters the cabin when the engine is pushed, but this occurs only occasionally. However, if you have a heavy right foot, that’s a different story.
Most of the time, the Vios has no trouble reaching the desired speed, and tackling mountainous areas is also not a significant issue.
This is because the Vios has been tuned for more economical fuel consumption, with Toyota claiming it can achieve a fuel efficiency rate of 5.2 liters/100 km.
One aspect that clearly sets the Vios a step above a competing local brand.
My experience returning to my hometown, which is located at the midpoint of Peninsular Malaysia, did not require frequent fuel refills.
3. Comfort is Paramount
In addition to driving factors, what makes the Vios feel more premium is the remarkably quiet cabin environment throughout the journey.
The standard suspension tuning provided in the Vios not only enhances driving pleasure but also minimizes any harshness and vibrations resulting from tire and road surface interactions.
As a result, the cabin remains comfortable and quiet, even the sound of the wind is difficult to hear at normal highway speeds.
One notable drawback of the Vios is the manual seat adjustment for both the driver and front passenger.
However, we believe this shortcoming can be overlooked due to the very supportive cushion dimensions, especially in the thigh area.
For those who enjoy long journeys, this feature is crucial for ensuring comfort throughout the drive, preventing excessive fatigue.
The cabin design of the Vios represents a significant upgrade introduced by Toyota to differentiate it from the previous Vios model.
The use of higher-quality materials and finishes, along with a more streamlined dashboard layout, successfully gives the Vios a more premium appearance, even though it shares many components with Daihatsu models.
One thing the author noticed is that although there are panel gaps on the dashboard, it is difficult to detect vibrations when the sedan traverses uneven surfaces, indicating a good level of factory assembly quality.
However, I hope the air conditioning control knobs can be improved in appearance to align better with the premium image that the dashboard aims to convey.
The quality of the air conditioning system in the Vios is not to be taken lightly; it is highly effective in keeping the cabin comfortable in Malaysia’s hot daytime temperatures.
4. Modern Features in the Vios
In line with current developments, the Vios also showcases several advanced features compared to competing models.
One of them is the digital cluster screen with various graphic display options that can be changed. If you prefer not to have an analog display, you can opt for the GR Corolla meter display.
The Vios is also equipped with a 360-degree camera system, enhancing its premium feel over competing models.
The resulting display image is quite clear, aiding owners in ensuring that the Vios’ beautiful body remains free from scratches, especially in tight areas.
Finally, the Vios includes an electronic parking brake (EPB) complete with an Auto Hold function, which is particularly helpful when caught in traffic congestion.
The Vios’s safety features are noteworthy as well; it includes a pre-collision system (PCS) that effectively prevents unintended collisions, adaptive cruise control (ACC), and forward motion alerts (FDA) to warn drivers who might lose focus at traffic signals.
The lane departure warning (LDW) feature also functions well, and I particularly enjoyed the notification sound reminiscent of warnings that pilots hear in an aircraft cockpit.
Additionally, the blind spot monitoring system (BSM) and rear cross traffic alert (RCTA) ensure day-to-day driving remains safe at all times.
5. Forgivable Weaknesses
As you may know, the Vios does have a few shortcomings, such as the absence of a spare tire and non-folding rear seats.
According to Toyota, most users do not utilize either of these functions, so they are not offered in the new Vios.
The absence of a spare tire allows for more hidden storage space in the rear.
What about the rear seating issue mentioned earlier?
Two years ago, the Chief Development Engineer of the Vios, Kamino Hideyuki, revealed that the lack of a rear seat folding mechanism was replaced with a brace to enhance the rigidity of the new Vios chassis.
Overall, the Vios is 110 kg lighter than its predecessor. As the saying goes: Weight reduction, bro!
In our opinion, these two weaknesses can be overlooked because the benefits of driving experience and handling are significantly improved in this Vios compared to earlier models.
In conclusion, the Toyota Vios is a B-segment sedan that is still worth considering and owning in 2025 if you have a budget of around RM100,000 and wish to upgrade to a larger, more practical vehicle.
More importantly, the Vios is now a car that is more enjoyable to drive!
UMW Toyota Motor concluded the year 2024 with strong sales momentum, surpassing the 100,000-unit mark for the third consecutive year.
In December 2024 alone, UMWT recorded sales exceeding 12,800 units, driven by popular models such as the Hilux, Vios, and Corolla Cross.
This brought Toyota Malaysia’s total annual sales to over 102,300 units.
For the same year, UMWT reported 1.42 million customers for after-sales services.
This impressive performance further solidified Toyota’s position in the Malaysian market, driven by customer demand for vehicles that offer efficiency, reliability, and advanced safety features.
As a brand that has long been a part of the automotive landscape in Malaysia, Toyota continues to play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s mobility ecosystem through its Multi-Pathway Approach.
By offering a diverse range of vehicles, Toyota meets the evolving needs of customers while also supporting the country’s transition towards sustainable mobility.
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:
UMW Toyota Motor has launched the ninth-generation Toyota Camry 2025 in conjunction with the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show 2024 (KLIMS 2024).
The sedan is powered by a Dynamic Force 2.5-liter engine (186 PS/221 Nm) paired with an electric motor producing 136 PS/208 Nm, together resulting in a combined power output of 230 PS with an eCVT transmission.
With its advanced fifth-generation hybrid system, the 2025 Toyota Camry is capable of achieving a total driving range of 1,250 kilometers.
The exterior design of the new Camry features an aggressive theme inspired by the Hammerhead shark, luxurious elements from the Toyota Crown, and air curtains for enhanced handling stability, complemented by 18-inch alloy wheels.
The cabin layout has also been revamped to present a more minimalist and luxurious look, featuring a 12.3-inch digital cluster display, a 12.3-inch central infotainment screen equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, a JBL audio system, and a head-up display.
Additionally, the car offers ventilated seating for the driver and front passenger with lumbar support, an elegant steering wheel design, rear seats that can recline up to eight degrees, control panels in the center armrest, three-zone climate control, wireless smart device charging, and USB charging ports.
There are six color options available: Cement Grey, Dark Blue Mica, Precious Metal, Emotional Red, Platinum White Pearl, and Attitude Black.
In terms of safety, the Camry 2.5 HEV is equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0) system, which includes features such as a pre-collision system, dynamic radar cruise control (DRCC), lane departure alert (LDA), lane tracking assist (LTA), road sign assist (RSA), automatic high beam (AHB), safe exit assist (SEA), as well as additional features like seven airbags, a panoramic view monitor (PVM), and a blind spot monitoring system (BSM).
The starting price for the 2025 Camry is RM248,800.
UMW Toyota Motors Sdn Bhd (UMWT) concluded the 23rd edition of the Toyota Eco Youth (TEY) with a grand closing ceremony at the Concorde Hotel, Shah Alam, after a three-day exhibition and convention running from November 12-14, 2024.
The three-day exhibition and convention showcased the outstanding environmental projects undertaken by top 10 finalists from 15 participating schools from all over Malaysia.
This event also highlighted Toyota’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and Toyota’s vision towards carbon neutrality by 2050.
The Toyota Eco Youth program, a national-level environmental education initiative, was launched on the May 9, 2024, with participation from 15 schools nationwide, involving students aged 13 to 17.
Participants engaged in Toyota’s 8 Steps Problem Solving Methodology, fostering critical thinking and practical problem-solving skills.
Each school was given a RM3,000 grant to initiate their projects which addresses environmental challenges within their communities, aligned with Toyota’s Environmental Challenge 2050 and its goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
On November 13, the top 10 schools presented their projects to a panel of judges, demonstrating their creative and impactful solutions to help address local community ecological concerns.
Judging criteria emphasised originality, clarity, relevance and exhibit creativity. On-site judging contributed 40% to each school’s final score, with additional points from project presentations, exhibitions and social media engagement.
These were the top 10 schools for Toyota Eco Youth 2024:
SMK Bukit Batu, Johor
SMK Alor Janggus, Kedah
SMK Sultan Ismail, Kelantan
SMK Seri Bentong, Pahang
SMK Choong Hua, Perak
SM Sung Siew Sandakan, Sabah
SMK Bukit Indah, Selangor
SMK Bandar Samariang, Sarawak
SM Saint Anne, WP Labuan
SMK Putrajaya Presint 8(1), WP Putrajaya
The closing ceremony was highlighted by the announcement of winners across several categories, celebrating and encouraging their contributions towards environmental sustainability.
Below is the list of the recognition and awards for TEY2024:
Champion: SMK Choong Hua, Perak
1st Runner Up: SM Sung Siew Sandakan, Sabah
2nd Runner Up: SMK Alor Janggus, Kedah
Best Presentation: SM Sung Siew Sandakan, Sabah
Best Exhibition: SMK Alor Janggus, Kedah
Best Social Media: SMK Choong Hua, Perak
Most Supportive Teacher: Lee Tack Hooi & Yeak Hwai Keen, SMK Choong Hua, Perak
This year’s awards, part of a prize pool totalling RM77,000, underscored UMWT’s commitment to incentivising innovation and creativity in environmental conservation among youth.
UMW Toyota is excited to announce that the Toyota Eco Youth program will continue in 2025 to support young innovators and to further encourage environmental stewardship, for a greener and more sustainable future.
UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has announced that it sold 8,500 units in August 2024, representing a slight drop of 500 units from the 9,000 units recorded in the month before that.
This brings the total year-to-date sales as of August 2024 to approximately 64,000 units. The top three best-selling models for last month were the Vios, Hilux and Corolla Cross.
On August 16, UMWT began taking orders for the enhanced 2024 models of the Hilux, Fortuner and GR86.
The Hilux now includes Vehicle Stability Control in the 2.4 Single Cab and features like Remote Engine Start and Panoramic View Monitor in select variants.
Meanwhile, the Fortuner introduces a GR Body Kit Package and Remote Engine Start on higher trims, while the GR86 now offers sharper handling, enhanced throttle response and comes equipped with a front and rear Digital Video Recorder (DVR).
Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor said, “Our August 2024 sales performance as well as the enhancements made to the three models, reflect our commitment to providing mobility solutions that drive innovation and customer satisfaction.”
For the month of September 2024, UMWT is introducing the “Move in Harmony” promo where buyers could enjoy broad promotional savings, including promo worth up to RM9,500 for the new Yaris, with monthly purchase instalments starting from only RM658.
The Toyota Service Savers program further offers convenient monthly instalments starting from as low as RM31.
For motorsport fans, brace yourselves as the highly anticipated Toyota Gazoo Racing Season 7 Round 2 is set to return to the Petronas Sepang International Circuit on September 27-29.
UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT) achieved robust sales performance in July 2024, with a total monthly sale of over 9,000 units. This brings the total year-to-date sales to more than 55,800 units as of July 2024.
This strategic focus on innovation and customer satisfaction has driven successful initiatives and promotions, culminating in this sales milestone.
Building on this momentum, UMWT has expanded its Lexus lineup with the introduction of two exciting new models last month, the Lexus RZ 450e and the Lexus LBX, deepening their focus with the “More than Electric” campaign, highlighting the dedication to a broad electrification strategy that includes both hybrid and fully electric vehicles.
Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMWT, stated, “Our July sales performance is a testament to our strategic approach and the trust our customers place in us. We are committed to continuously delivering exceptional value and innovative mobility solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers.”
As part of their commitment to enhancing the buying experience, UMWT introduced the “Discover Merdeka Exclusives” promo for August 2024.
Car buyers could enjoy broad promotional savings, including promo worth up to RM8,000 for the Corolla Cross Hybrid Electric, with monthly purchase instalments starting from only RM1,058.
The Toyota Service Savers program further offers convenient monthly instalments starting from as low as RM31.
UMWT is set to celebrate Malaysia’s independence with the Merdeka Showroom Weekender, a patriotic-themed event happening on August 17 and 18, 2024.
This nationwide event will take place at all Toyota showrooms from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, offering visitors the chance to test drive popular Toyota models such as Vios, Yaris, Corolla Cross Hybrid Electric, Hilux and provided opportunities for community involvement and engagement.
Additionally, attendees can explore trade-in and pre-owned car options from Topmark outlets.
The first round of the seventh season of the Toyota Gazoo Racing Vios Challenge, which unfolded last Sunday, had the right mix to produce a more dramatic race weekend.
In addition to the debut of the new generation Vios racing car for the first time, it also became a battleground with changing weather conditions, sibling showdowns, international racer participation for the first time, and a resurgence of young driver dominance.
The first round saw a total of 33 cars battling it out in a challenging one-hour race format, different from previous seasons where drivers only had to compete in shorter sprint races.
In the Super Sporting class, Axle Sports’ driver Naquib Azlan emerged as the overall winner of the first round, taking home a prize of RM16,000.
Mitchell Cheah from Prima Pearl TD Racing came in second place, and Tengku Djan Ley (TD Racing) secured third place.
In the Sporting class, Kenneth Koh from PCM Group Racing Team emerged as the overall winner after improving his position in the second race.
Shafiq Shamsudin (Race Rally KL), who clinched the first race victory, seemed to swap places with Kenneth Koh in the second race, thus securing second place overall.
Meanwhile, Teo Hong Zhou (BAE Racing by ES Yang) finished third overall, after securing fourth place in the first race and second place in the second race.
The Rookie class, showcasing a lineup of young drivers, produced the same results in the second race as the first, with pro karter Adam Mikail clinching first place twice consecutively throughout the weekend.
Adam’s performance has exceeded expectations as a rookie, considering his ability to finish the race early compared to the Sporting class winner, securing a tenth place overall position in a grid of 33 cars.
The seventh season of the Toyota Gazoo Racing Vios Challenge also saw the participation of three young drivers: pro karter Audrey Leong (17 years old), simulation racer Raja Amirul (21 years old), and recreational karter Kingston Tan (19 years old).
The second round of the Vios Challenge will take place from September 27 to 29 at the PETRONAS International Circuit at Sepang.
UMW Toyota Motor has announced the return of the Vios Challenge racing series for its seventh season, starting this weekend, offering a total prize value of RM630,000.
For this year, the Vios Challenge will feature up to three rounds and six individual races taking place at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit.
The first round of the Toyota Vios Challenge will take place from August 9-11 simultaneously with the Malaysian Championship Series (MCS), while the second round will be held from September 27-29. Both of these rounds will be broadcast live on Facebook and YouTube.
The final round will take place on January 3-5, 2025, open to the public with various attractions and programs planned to further enliven the atmosphere.
The seventh season of the Vios Challenge will feature three main classes: Sporting Class, Super Sporting Class, and TGR Rookie Class.
Among those expected to draw attention in the Super Sporting Class are three-time champion Tengku Djan Ley, Mitchell Cheah, Eddie Lew, William Ho, Tom Goh, and Freddie Ang.
Additionally, the Super Sporting Class will see the participation of young racers such as Putera Adam, siblings Naquib and Nabil Azlan, Bradley Benedict, Ady Rahimy, and Aman Nagdev from India.
The Sporting Class will list names like Dato’ Dr Ken Foo, Kenneth Koh, Dannies Ng, Shafiq Samsudin, Ricky Tan, Lim Chung Beng, as well as young racers Elson Yew, Amirul Haikal, Timothy Yeo, and Ashen Arumugam.
This class will also feature international racers, namely Panithan Rakpaibulsombut from Thailand and Daniel Inosuke Ooi from Singapore.
Meanwhile, the TGR Rookies will showcase a lineup of 24 young racers who have just completed the GAZOO Racing Young Talent Development Program.
Highlighted names include kart racer Brandon Ho (22 years old), Adam Mikail (18 years old), Amirul Afiq (22 years old), Audrey Leong (17 years old), Kingston Tan (19 years old), and simulation racer Raja Amirul (21 years old).
The seventh season of the Vios Challenge will serve as the main stage for the debut of the latest generation Toyota Vios racing car.
It still retains the 1.5-liter engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission, but with a more stable platform and chassis, and revised aerodynamics to enable it to achieve the fastest lap times.
UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has announced its sales performance for June 2024, with the company recording a total of 7,600 units sold.
The figure represents a decrease of 9.8% compared to the 8,422 units recorded in May. With this recent achievement, the total year-to-date sales as of June 2024 is now at 47,000 units.
According to UMWT, this reflects the company’s initiatives and successful customer-centric promotions. The company characterizes the sales performance in June as positive, driven by successful promotional efforts and a focus on both customer satisfaction and social responsibility.
Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMWT, said, “We are grateful for the trust our customers have given us, which is reflected in our sales this month. This trust strengthens our commitment to society and aligns with our vision to Move Your World.”
To further enhance buying experience, UMWT has introduced the “Peace of Mind with Every Drive” promo for July 2024, offering customers up to 100% financing for selected models.
Additionally, customers can enjoy various other savings, including promotions worth up to RM7,500 for the new Yaris, with monthly installments from as low as RM688.
Meanwhile, the Toyota Service Savers program further offers convenient monthly instalments starting from as low as RM31.
Following the warm reception of Toyota Showroom Weekender held on July 13 and 14, UMW said it will continue to host the event monthly.
UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT) ended May 2024 with ongoing positive performance, attaining a total monthly sale of 8,422 units for Toyota and Lexus vehicles.
With this achievement, the total year-to-date sales as of May 2024 is now at 39,211 units.
Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMWT, stated the company’s strong performance in May highlights their relentless commitment to providing exceptional vehicles and services that cater to the diverse needs of their customers.
“The success of community programs strengthens our dedication to environmental sustainability and social responsibility, reinforcing our role as a leader in the automotive industry and embodying our ‘Move Your World’ philosophy,” he said in a statement.
UMWT’s commitment to community and environmental sustainability is demonstrated through the 23rd Toyota Eco Youth (TEY) program, launched in partnership with the Ministry of Education.
his national-level program empowers students aged 13 to 17 from 16 schools nationwide, focusing on Toyota’s 8 Steps Problem-Solving Method (PSM) to promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Since its inception in 2001, TEY has engaged over 300,000 students from 521 schools, fostering a legacy of environmental stewardship.
UMWT also announced the third edition of the Toyota Start Your Impossible Outrun 2024, a charity run aimed at raising cancer awareness.
Set to take place at Dataran Merdeka, this annual event supports the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM) through funds raised.
As part of their commitment to enhancing the buying experience, UMWT introduced the “Peace of Mind” promo for June 2024, offering customers up to 100% financing for selected models.
Car buyers could enjoy broad promotional savings, including up to RM7,500 for the New Yaris, with monthly purchase instalments starting from only RM688 for the all-new Vios. The Toyota Service Savers program further offers convenient monthly instalments starting from as low as RM31.
IN light of recent developments surrounding the safety test at Daihatsu Motor Co Ltd (DMC), UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT) has released a statement ensuring customers and the public that it is committed to transparency and accountability.
This follows the statement released by Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) highligthing a procedural irregularity in in the testing of models by DMC, impacting three models distributed by UMWT in Malaysia.
President of UMW Toyota Motor, Datuk Ravindran K. said, “We emphasise our dedication to maintaing the highest standards and quality in our vehicles. Rest assured, we are actively working to ensure that all our vehicles in Malaysia strictly adhere to the relevant regulations and rules.”
Ravindran stated that UMWT is also working closely with regulatory authorities to promptly and transparently address this matter, maintaining its commitment to delivering high-quality vehicles to the Malaysian market.
“We understand the importance of trust, and we we want to reinforce the confidence our customers place in us. Our dedication to customer satisfaction has always been and remains our top priority,” he added.
In a statement issued on December 20th, TMC stated that an investigation conducted by an independent third-party committee found new irregularities in 174 items within 25 test categories. This is in addition to the door lining irregularity in April and the side collision test irregularity in May.
These encompassed a total of 64 models and three engines of vehicles (total of models currently being produced, developed, or ceased in production), including 22 models and one engine being sold by Toyota. The affected Toyota models sold in Malaysia are the Rush, Veloz, and Yaris/Vios.
In light of this, TMC and DMC have temporarily suspended shipments of all affected models both in Japan and overseas.
Malaysia’s Leading Automotive News | ENGEAR ENGLISH
