Honestly, we believe Volvo has been one of the best manufacturers of beautiful wagon designs since the first model (the Duett) was introduced in 1953, and that reputation continues to this day.
However, the expertise that Volvo is known for may not be needed in the future.
According to CEO Jim Rowan in an interview with AutoExpress, the future of Volvo will no longer include wagon models; instead, the brand will focus on sedan and SUV models.
This represents a significant shift for a brand widely recognized for its elegant wagon tradition over the years.
Rowan explained that it’s quite costly to introduce different vehicle models to the market and keep them there.
“It’s more cost-effective to drive higher volumes through the same platform and body style,” he said.
With the absence of wagon models, Volvo aims to position its existing SUV lineup with various offerings, such as the Black Edition and Cross Country, which are more tailored for specific customer segments.
Interestingly, this recent announcement comes shortly after a statement from Volvo UK’s commercial director, Robert Deane, who admitted that the decision to stop selling the V60 and V90 models in 2023 was a mistake.
“When you tell customers that a model (wagon) is no longer available, they will start looking for alternatives from other brands,” he added.
Undoubtedly, aside from Volvo, several other manufacturers, such as Audi and BMW, still offer wagon models, even though that market is dwindling year by year.
Further explaining Volvo’s direction, Rowan stated that the company is intentionally narrowing its focus at this time.
“We’re making very conscious choices about where we want to play the game. Where we’re differentiating is with SUVs; nice high ride height, very safe – and we think we can protect that beachhead against the competition.
“It’s much easier than us becoming distracted by too many models.”
For 2025, Volvo has already planned to introduce five new models, including the ES90 sedan and the upcoming EX60 electric SUV.
One thing is clear: wagons are no longer a priority for Volvo at this time.
At the launch of the Denza D9 in Kuala Lumpur, the automaker caught some of us (including yours truly) off guard when it used the Z9 GT to bring BYD’s Asia-Pacific Auto Sales Division General Manager Liu Xueliang onto the stage.
But the excitement didn’t stop there. The car demonstrated one of its standout features by executing a tank turn, which is essentially a 360-degree turn in the same spot. Picture a drift car performing a donut, albeit at a much slower speed and sans the billowing smoke.
Could this brief demonstration be an indication that the Z9 GT will soon enter the Malaysian market?
When questioned about this, BYD Malaysia’s Managing Director, Eagle Zhao, stated, “Soon, we will introduce more models in Malaysia, including the Z9 GT.”
The statement clearly illustrates Denza’s serious intentions regarding its presence in Malaysia. This is because unlike the D9, the Z9 GT currently lacks a right-hand drive (RHD) version.
By effectively saying that the model will be introduced here, Denza is indirectly signalling its readiness to invest significantly in entering RHD markets like Malaysia.
However, the question remains: can the Z9 GT entice Malaysian buyers, especially with the fierce competition from other, more established brands?
While it’s still too early to predict how the Z9 GT will do in our market, my first encounter with said car during a visit to Shenzhen, China, late last year showed that it has what it takes to shake things up the premium segment.
There was a test drive session but it was conducted in a rather small area with limited time. That said, I can conclude that the Z9 GT is indeed an exhilarating piece of machinery, not just in terms of performance but also on the design and feature fronts.
As you can see, the Z9 GT is a five-door wagon/shooting brake with a side profile that looks like it was cast in the same mould as the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo.
Although its overall design may not match the German car’s grandeur, for those seeking a stylish shooting brake without breaking the bank, the Z9 GT seems like a fine candidate.
True to expectations, the car’s interior luxuriates in opulence and high-tech amenities that are sure to entice premium segment buyers.
It is important to note that the model is not solely developed for the Chinese market; it is also slated for European markets, where it will compete with legacy manufacturers like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi. So, the more kit, the better.
Notable features include Nappa leather upholstery, a panoramic glass roof, ambient lighting, two small fridges (one beneath the front armrest and another hidden between the rear seatbacks), and automatic doors that open and close by a mere press of a button—much like the i7.
The infotainment system is quite impressive as well. In addition to the digital instrument panel for the driver and a generously sized central touchscreen, the car also includes a display for the front passenger.
On top of these, it also comes equipped with a Devialet audio system (a French audio technology company) comprising a whopping 26 speakers and two wireless chargers on the centre console.
What about practicality, you ask? Golfers will surely appreciate the Z9 GT, as its boot space is ample enough to accommodate two golf bags when the rear seats are folded. Loading items into the boot is also made easy, thanks to the hatch that provides a wide opening.
Back to the aforementioned test drive, the media units provided were the PHEV variants featuring a 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder petrol engine acting as a generator for three electric motors—one at the front axle, and two at the rear.
The combination yields a healthy total output of 870 PS, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in a scant 3.6 seconds.
Also integral to this fifth-generation DM hybrid system is a 38.5 kWh LFP Blade battery, providing a pure electric driving range of 201 km (CLTC cycle) and a combined range of 1,100 km.
Needless to say, the Z9 GT moves like a rocket on wheels in a straight line but when facing tight turns, it does not exhibit the agility one might expect, despite equipped with rear-wheel steering and an air suspension system.
The primary factors contributing to this shortcoming are the size and weight of the Z9 GT. Measuring 5,180 mm in length, 1,990 mm in width, and with a wheelbase of 3,125 mm, this car is undeniably large. Weighing in at 2.9 tonnes, it comes as no surprise that it also struggled with the slalom test.
However, to be fair, the makeshift course was rather small for a powerhouse like the Z9 GT. Perhaps more comprehensive tests on highways or larger circuits like Sepang would do better justice to the car’s true capabilities.
For your information, in addition to the PHEV version, the Z9 GT is also available as an EV featuring three electric motors and a 100 kWh battery. This version boasts a total output of 963 PS, is capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds and achieving a range of 630 km on a full charge.
Which version will be imported to Malaysia remains unclear but one thing for sure, the imminent arrival of the Z9 GT poses a challenge to other luxury brands.
After a long period of silence, TC Subaru, the official distributor of Subaru vehicles in Malaysia has finally introduced the new crossover wagon model, the 2024 Subaru Outback XT Touring EyeSight.
The Subaru Outback XT is powered by a 2.4-liter turbo flat-four-cylinder engine capable of producing up to 249 PS and 350 Nm of torque.
Power is transmitted to all wheels through the Subaru Lineartronic Transmission (SLT) Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, with acceleration from 0-100 km/h achievable in 7.5 seconds.
Owners can choose between two driving modes, Intelligent and Sport, with an additional off-road X-Mode with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud options.
In terms of dimensions, the Subaru Outback XT measures 4,860 mm in length, 1,680 mm in height, 1,855 mm in width, with a wheelbase of 2,745 mm. As a crossover wagon, the Outback XT offers a ground clearance of 213 mm.
External features of the Outback XT include 17-inch rims, XT emblem, LED headlights, LED fog lights, roof rails, body cladding, and a rear spoiler.
In the cabin, the Outback XT offers analog meters with a small MID screen, an 11.6-inch infotainment screen, support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Nappa leather-upholstered seats, and the use of soft-touch materials in some areas.
The cargo space of the Outback XT is 561 liters, and expandable to 1,848 liters when the 60:40 split-folding rear seats are folded.
As standard, the Subaru Outback XT is equipped with Subaru EyeSight 4.0, which includes functions such as pre-collision braking, autonomous emergency steering, adaptive cruise control, lane-centering function, and lane departure prevention.
Fully imported from Japan, the Subaru Outback XT Touring EyeSight is sold at a starting price of RM310,390, while the Outback 2.5-T (2.5L NA engine, 185 PS/245 Nm) is sold at a price of RM280,390.
Introducing the newly launched BMW M5 Touring 2025, a fast wagon model that offers a more practical option compared to the sedan variant.
This long-roof version of the BMW M5 marks the third wagon model in the history of the M5, with the last appearance being in 2007.
Here are some key facts you should know about the 2025 M5 Touring:
1. Weighs 2.5 tons
The BMW M5 2025 can be likened to an elephant, with an overall weight reaching nearly 2.5 tons due to the powertrain used.
However, for the M5 Touring model, BMW estimates a weight of around 2,508 kg, which is 63 kg heavier than the sedan model.
2. Near 50:50 weight distribution ratio
One aspect that sets it apart from the sedan model is the nearly 50:50 weight distribution ratio.
According to BMW, this is due to factors such as a longer wheelbase, wider track, and a lower center of gravity.
3. Equipped with the same power as the sedan
The BMW M5 Touring 2025 employs the same specifications as the sedan model.
The 4.4-liter turbocharged V8 engine, aided by a hybrid system, is capable of producing 717 hp and 1,000 Nm of torque.
Acceleration from 0-96 km/h is as quick as 3.5 seconds (slightly slower than the M5 sedan’s 3.4 seconds), with a top speed of around 248 km/h.
With the M Driver package, you can drive this wagon at a maximum speed of 304 km/h.
4. Spacious cargo area
One of the advantages of the wagon model is undoubtedly its more practical space.
The long-roofed BMW M5 Touring 2025 offers a volume of 501 liters, which can expand up to 1,631 liters when the second-row seats (40:20:40) are folded flat.
Other features are similar to the M5 sedan, such as the curved screen panel, specific M graphics display, BMW’s Operating System 8.5, new steering wheel design, and unique ambient lighting system.
5. Launch
The BMW M5 Touring 2025 will be globally launched in the fourth quarter of this year.
It will also be available in the U.S. market with a starting price of $121,500 (RM539,010).
THERE are three things that can elevate a BMW. The first is the wagon (or Touring in BMW speak) body style. The second is manual transmission, and the third is Alpina.
The Alpina B3 Touring has all three. It is currently up for auction on the ‘Bring a Trailer’ website, with the current bid standing at $20,250 (RM95,985) at the time of writing.
Only 89 units of the B3 Touring were ever produced, and this particular unit is #23. Built in September 1996, it was initially delivered to Nicole Racing Japan before being exported to the Netherlands in 2017. In 2022, it was imported to the United States.
The car still sports its original metallic blue paint, along with the Alpina body kit and 17-inch multispoke alloy wheels. Making it stand out further are the gold-tone Alpina graphics on the side and rear.
Inside, the seats and door panels are upholstered in black fabric with green and blue stripes, while the floor is protected by Alpina carpeting. The steering wheel is leather-wrapped with two-tone stitching and features the Alpina logo on the steering boss.
Under the hood lies a 3.2-litre inline-six engine producing 265 hp and 329 Nm of torque. Several maintenance works were made in 2023, including the reconstruction of the Vanos system and the replacement of the cylinder head gasket, fuel pressure regulator, fuel injectors, oxygen sensors, and more. The mileage is approaching 176,000 km.
The #23 B3 Touring was initially equipped with an automatic transmission, but it was replaced with a Getrag 420G six-speed manual transmission from sourced from an E46 M3. It was installed this year along with a Limited-Slip Differential (LSD).
Interestingly, the removed automatic transmission is included in the sale along with additional spare parts and a scale model.
Subaru has finally unveiled the combination package that many loyal fans have been eagerly awaiting; the WRX, wagon, and manual. This package comes in the form of the Subaru WRX Sportwagon.
However, as you read in the headline, we are unable to purchase it. The Subaru WRX Sportwagon is only offered in Mexico. Yes, it is not available in Japan or the United States either.
This high-performance wagon will soon be available for sale in Mexico, with bookings already underway.
The WRX Sportwagon is powered by a 2.4-liter boxer 4-cylinder turbo engine with an output of 271hp and 350Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission and an all-wheel-drive system.
Standard features of the wagon include power rear gate and rear seats with a 40/20/40 split fold. The Subaru WRX Sportwagon will be sold at a price of MX$819,900 (RM230k).
Are there many WRX wagon manual enthusiasts here? Is it possible for us to purchase it from Mexico and import it to Malaysia? Share your thoughts in the comments section.
If you still remember 2019, Volkswagen once showcased the ID. Space Vizzion Concept, now in February 2024, they present its production version – the ID.7 Tourer.
This will mark Volkswagen’s entry into the electric wagon (EV) segment. The ID.7 Tourer joins the lineup of models such as the Golf Variant, Passat Variant, and Arteon Shooting Brake.
The VW ID.7 Tourer measures 4,961mm in length, 1,862mm in width, 1,536mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,971mm.
This EV wagon can accommodate 605 liters of cargo, which can be expanded to 1,714 liters when the rear seats are folded. VW also offers an additional roof box for those seeking more space, perhaps for long journeys or moving houses.
The exterior and interior design, as expected for Volkswagen, are distinctive. Essentially, it is an ID.7 with an elongated roof.
This Tourer version features a polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) roof that can become transparent to allow light in, according to preference.
In terms of mechanics, the ID.7 Tourer is powered by a single electric motor at the rear, with an output of 282hp and 545Nm of torque. The Pro variant comes with a 77kWh battery pack, while the Pro S variant features an 86kWh battery.
With the larger battery, the ID.7 Tourer can travel up to 685km on a single charge. As for charging, it can achieve a range of 10% to 80% in less than 30 minutes using DC.
This EV wagon will be manufactured at the Emden factory in Germany, the same facility used for assembling the standard ID.7 and ID.4 models. The launch of this model is expected around mid-2024.
You may have forgotten about it but about three years ago, Audi introduced the RS6 GTO Concept that took inspiration from the Audi 90 quattro IMSA GTO race car.
That concept car now has made it to production through a limited edition model known as the RS6 Avant GT.
Only 660 units of the GT will be offered, all of which will be assembled at Böllinger Höfe, where the R8, e-tron GT quattro and RS e-tron GT are built in small-series production.
As you can see, the RS6 Avant GT is not exactly a carbon copy of the RS6 GTO but there are some elements that have been carried over from the concept car.
These include the Singleframe and the air intakes finished entirely in high-gloss black, integrated air outlets behind the front wheels, and the distinctive double wing.
The livery on the RS6 Avant GT appears slightly different from that of the RS6 GTO but still retains the traditional Audi Sport colours of black, grey, and red.
In addition, the wagon also comes with a fully redesigned hood and fenders manufactured from carbon fibre, marking the first time the RS6 Avant has received such addenda.
The wheels come in 22-inch sizes and are available in glossy white, glossy black, or matte black, depending on the chosen body colour.
Meanwhile, the black interior is enhanced by numerous accents in the red and copper, which can be found on the steering wheel, the sides of the center console, the center armrest and door armrests and the floor mats.
The RS6 Avant GT comes standard with RS bucket seats wrapped in leather and Dinamica upholstery. The seats are also adorned with Express Red honeycomb stitching in the center and copper trims on the outer seams.
Included are also Dinamica microfibre trims on the dashboard, centre console, and doors, red seat belts, and the car’s serial number on the centre console.
Like the RS6 Avant Performance, the GT is powered by a 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8 TFSI engine that produces a whopping 630 PS and 850 Nm.
However, in terms of performance, this one is even more impressive, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 3.3 seconds, making it 0.1 seconds faster than the Performance version.
For the 0-200 km/h sprint, the GT needs only 11.5 seconds to accomplish, while the maximum speed is rated at 305 km/h.
To make it more agile on corners, Audi has installed an adjustable coilover suspension system as standard. It lowers the ride height by 10 mm compared to the RS6 Avant and offers a perfect combination of dynamics and comfort.
Alternatively, customers can opt for the RS sport suspension plus with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) or the RS adaptive air suspension.
Other goodies found in the GT include stiffer stabiliser bars (30% in the front, 80% in the rear), reworked quattro sport differential on the rear axle, and 285/30 Continental Sport Contact 7 tyres
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