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Ford Malaysia Introduces the New Ranger Raptor Sport 3.0, Marking Three Years of the Raptor Line-Up

Sime Darby Auto ConneXion-Ford, the sole distributor of Ford vehicles in Malaysia, has launched the Ford Ranger Raptor Sport 3.0, a new addition to the Ranger Raptor family created to celebrate the model’s third anniversary in the Malaysian market. The latest variant builds on the Raptor’s performance-focused reputation with a series of enhancements in power, design, and off-road capability.

At the core of the Ranger Raptor Sport is a 3.0-litre twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 petrol engine, tuned by Ford Performance. The engine produces 397PS at 5,650 rpm and 583 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm, making it one of the most powerful pickup offerings in its class. Complementing the powertrain are FOX 2.5-inch Live Valve Internal Bypass shock absorbers, which feature race-proven Bottom-Out Control for better composure on rough terrain while maintaining comfort on the road.

The Raptor Sport rides on beadlock-style wheels that come with threaded holes to support true beadlock rings for serious off-road use. These wheels arrive with stylish “beauty rings” as standard, with owners able to purchase beadlock rings separately if they plan to run low tyre pressures for improved grip during heavy off-road activities.

Visually, the Raptor Sport introduces a new Raptor decal design and a Sport Hoop that reinforces its muscular stance. These styling cues build on the Raptor’s established identity as a performance pickup created for drivers who want capability with a strong visual presence.

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smart #5 Officially Launched – Priced from RM199,800, 636hp, 0-100km/h in 3.8 Seconds

The smart #5 has officially been launched in Malaysia, joining the #1 and #3 but sitting above both as the brand’s largest and most capable model to date. With its focus on space, long-distance travel and performance, the new SUV steps directly into the premium EV battleground.

Two variants make up the local line-up: the Premium, and the high-output BRABUS.

The Premium variant features a 100kWh battery capable of up to 590km on a full charge. Power output is at 358hp, 373Nm of torque and the 0–100 km/h sprint improves to 6.5 seconds. The cabin gets Nappa leather, a 20-speaker Sennheiser system with Dolby Atmos, and an augmented-reality head-up display. It further adds illuminated flush door handles, two wireless charging pads and 22 kW AC charging for quicker top-ups.

Sitting at the peak of the range is the BRABUS edition, engineered for drivers who want genuine performance. Dual motors generate 636hp and 710Nm, enabling a blistering 3.8-second dash to 100km/h and a top speed of 210km/h.

The SUV gains sport-tuned suspension, 21-inch wheels, red brake callipers and even simulated engine sound for added theatre. It also uses an 800-volt architecture, unlocking rapid charging that takes the battery from 10 to 80% in only 15 minutes when paired with a 400 kW DC charger.

All versions benefit from smart’s latest technology suite, built around 26 sensors—including radars, cameras and ultrasonic units—driven by Nvidia’s OrinX processors. This setup supports L2+ driver assistance features such as Smart Pilot Assist, Auto Lane Change Assist and fully autonomous parking.

Safety has been placed at the forefront, with the body engineered to meet both European and Chinese 5-star NCAP requirements. The structure uses 82% high-strength steel and achieves a torsional rigidity figure of 42,300 Nm/deg, comfortably surpassing typical class standards.

Inside, a 2,900 mm wheelbase ensures ample room for passengers. The rear seats recline and can be configured into nap or bed modes for longer journeys, while luggage capacity remains generous at up to 1,530 litres, supported by an additional 72-litre frunk. Real wood trims, Nappa leather upholstery, laminated glass and a panoramic roof with a powered shade all help create a more premium environment.

The Premium variant is priced at RM199,800 and the Brabus at RM249,800.

The smart all inclusive premium ownership includes a complimentary wallbox charger worth RM3,000, complimentary V2L adaptor worth RM800, complimentary 3-year internet data of 3GB/month (total 108GB) and free accessories package with six items worth RM2,000.

Warranty includes a 8-year or 200,000km high voltage battery warranty, 8-year or 150,000km high voltage component warranty, 4-year unlimited mileage vehicle warranty, 2-year unlimited mileage spare parts warranty and 24/7 roadside service assistance.

With its arrival, the smart #5 enters a highly competitive EV segment in Malaysia. It will go up against the Tesla Model Y, BYD Sealion 7, Zeekr 7X and Xpeng G6, while the BRABUS version eyes buyers considering performance choices such as the BMW iX3 and MINI Countryman SE.

Mitsubishi Motors Melaka Moves to a New 3S Home with a Major Upgrade

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia has given its Melaka presence a significant boost with the relocation of the EON Auto Mart outlet to a fully upgraded 3S centre, bringing sales, service and spare parts under one roof. The move marks a major step forward for the long-standing partnership between Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia and EON Auto Mart, which has been part of the brand’s dealer network since 2005.

The Melaka branch itself first opened in 2009 and has now transitioned from a modest 1S+2S setup into a complete and modern facility.

The new showroom is located at No. 1, Jalan Autocity 3, Melaka Autocity, Hang Tuah Jaya, Durian Tunggal, and has been designed to reflect Mitsubishi Motors’ global identity and the “Drive Your Ambition” philosophy. Covering 7,465 square feet, the centre offers a far more spacious environment and can display up to six vehicles at a time.

Customers will also find a dedicated delivery zone, 10 service bays supported by seven hoists, and a selection of customer-friendly amenities including a lounge area, Wi-Fi access and a play space for children.

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Subaru Unveils BRZ STI Sport Type RA with Race-Inspired Upgrades for Japan

Subaru has given the BRZ yet another shot of excitement, even five years into its current generation, with the introduction of the STI Sport Type RA. Offered only in Japan and limited to a tiny production run, this special edition sharpens the coupe with a substantial list of mechanical upgrades rather than going all-out as a full STI model.

The familiar 2.4-litre naturally aspirated engine remains at the heart of the car, but Subaru has reworked it using know-how from the BRZ CNF race car that competed in the Super Taikyu Series from 2022 through early 2024. The company explained that the pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, flywheel and clutch cover have been manufactured with extremely tight tolerances, reducing weight variations and improving rotational balance. Subaru said these changes give the car a more race-car-like character, with noticeably smoother acceleration and reduced vibration.

The enhancements don’t stop with the engine. The STI Sport Type RA sits on 18-inch BBS wheels finished in matte bronze or grey, paired with ZF dampers and Brembo brakes featuring gold callipers. Subaru has also fitted the same rear differential casing used in its race cars, complete with cooling fins for better thermal management during spirited driving.

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Honda Malaysia Launches Limited CR-V Dual-Tone Edition to Mark 25 Years

Honda Malaysia has introduced a special CR-V Dual-Tone Edition, celebrating 25 years of the brand’s presence in Malaysia. Only 300 units of this limited edition SUV will be available nationwide, showing Honda’s appreciation to loyal customers who have supported the brand over the years.

The CR-V is Honda Malaysia’s longest-running model and a key part of its success. This new Dual-Tone Edition is the first CR-V to feature a two-tone design, with a black roof, side pillars, and mirrors that add a sportier and more stylish look. It is available for the E and V variants, both powered by a 1.5L VTEC Turbo engine that delivers strong performance and smooth driving.

Customers can choose between two colours — Ignite Red Metallic and Platinum White Pearl. Prices remain the same as before: RM169,900 for the E variant and RM181,900 for the V variant. This release is part of Honda Malaysia’s “Because of You” 25th Anniversary Campaign, which thanks Malaysians for their long-term trust and support.

The CR-V has been an important model for Honda Malaysia since it first became locally assembled in 2003 at the Melaka plant. So far, about 149,000 units have been sold across the country, proving its popularity as a reliable and versatile SUV.

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All the benefits of an EV without the hassle

Exploring Chery’s PHEV models

In a previous article, we explored the benefits of Chery’s HEV technology, stating that it offered benefits such as improved fuel efficiency, performance and even a smoother ride.

You can read the article here.

But we understand that there are some who don’t mind the plugged-in life but need an engine to sometimes go further. Chery has a solution for that too and it is known as the Chery Super Hybrid (CSH) Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV).

Two PHEV models were launched recently, the Tiggo 7 PHEV and the Tiggo 8 PHEV. And both offer gargantuan power with impressive range, up to 1200km to be precise.

So what makes PHEV’s by Chery so efficient?

It is the result of a large battery, powerful tri-motors, self-charging capability and the ability to plug in to an external source for recharging.

Powering Chery PHEV’s is a 18.3kWh LFP battery that is IP68 certified for overall durability.

Interestingly, Chery has been rather keen to showcase its durability. The battery is already known to be dust and water resistant, and it is also well known that it can withstand up to 95 degrees Celsius of heat, but in a display of durability, Chery also submerged the battery in a metre-deep tank of seawater for over 53 hours.

After that, it was removed from the tank, cleaned out and reinstalled into a Tiggo 8 PHEV and voila, it still worked.

But that’s not the only test it has survived, Chery has been overtly keen to show the toughness of its LFP batteries, and it has withstood everything the company has thrown at it, seven-car stack test and 15 foot vertical drop included.

The battery is obviously at the centre of the car’s capabilities

And rightfully so because it provides for an all-electric range of up to 90km, making the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 PHEV models incredibly efficient.

In fact, as mentioned before, both models have a claimed combined range of up to 1200km. So yes, the battery is very much the heart of Chery’s CSH package.

As for recharging, the battery can accept up to 40kW of DC charge and 6.6kW of AC charge. The former will charge up the car from 30-80% state of charge in under 20 minutes, while the latter will take three hours.

This is true for both the Tiggo 7 and the Tiggo 8 PHEV models.

What are some of the other benefits of PHEV models?

Power, a lot of it, is one of the other benefits of a PHEV model. Though efficiency is the keyword here, but power can’t be ignored.

Both the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 PHEV’s are powered by a 1.5-litre, turbocharged engine making 143PS and 215Nm.

This is then combined with an electric motor that makes 204PS and 310Nm by itself. Total system output is rated at 275PS and 365Nm of torque.

The engine mostly works as a range extender and recharge the battery when it is depleted while on the move. But when needed, the engine works concurrently with the motor to provide forward propulsion.

What is rather impressive here is that Chery claims a 98% mechanical efficiency for its Dedicated Hybrid Transmission. If you are wondering what that means, well that simply means that very little power is loss to friction or other “parasitic” losses. So what the engine and motor produce, the wheels get 98% of.

Who will benefit from Chery’s PHEV models?

Just about everyone in fact. If you spend time in traffic during work hours, you will appreciate the all-electric capabilities that the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 PHEV have to offer.

If you travel a lot on highways and don’t want to be stuck to a charger, you will also appreciate the fact that the engine can recharge the batteries, as can the regenerative braking system.

So, after a while of driving on the highway, the battery would have gained some percentage of charge so you don’t always have to look out for a charger to enjoy the benefits of the PHEV powertrain.

There is a lot to appreciate about Chery’s PHEV systems, so if you are keen on a car that is efficient and powerful yet comfortable for the family, then Chery’s HEV and PHEV models make a lot of sense.