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Toyota GR Corolla Receives Updates, Orders Open in Japan

Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) has introduced an updated version of the GR Corolla, with orders now available at Toyota dealers in Japan, ahead of sales commencing on November 3.

Structural and Cooling Upgrades

The revised GR Corolla comes with a stiffer body and improved intake cooling. Structural adhesive now extends to 32.7 metres of the chassis—almost 14 metres more than before—mainly around the front, floor, and rear wheel wells. This makes the body more rigid without adding significant weight, helping the car remain composed whether on city streets or race circuits.

To ensure stable performance under heavy load, Toyota has added a high-speed cooling duct to the intake system. By pulling cool air directly from the grille, the duct lowers intake temperatures during sustained hard driving, keeping the 1.6-litre G16E-GTS turbo engine performing consistently at full output.

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Toyota Australia Predicts Hydrogen Could Overtake Diesel in the Next Decade

For decades, diesel engines have been the backbone of pickups, large SUVs, and vans across key markets. In Australia, the story has been no different, with diesel still powering almost half of Toyota’s local sales. But according to Toyota Australia, the days of diesel dominance could be numbered, with hydrogen waiting in the wings to take its place.

Out of 163,491 vehicles sold by Toyota in Australia during the first eight months of the year, 48.4 per cent were diesel-powered. Heavy-hitters like the Hilux, LandCruiser, Prado, HiAce and Fortuner continue to drive those numbers. The company admits this strong reliance on diesel won’t disappear overnight, but it believes change is inevitable.

Toyota Australia’s vice president of sales, marketing and franchise operations, Sean Hanley, explained that diesel still has a role to play throughout this decade, but beyond that, hydrogen could be the game-changer. He pointed out that petrol models already match diesel in many respects, and in some areas outperform them, which raises questions over diesel’s long-term relevance.

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Proton e.MAS 7 Stays on Top as Malaysia’s Best-Selling EV

Proton’s electric push continues to gain traction as the Proton e.MAS 7 has once again claimed the title of Malaysia’s number one electric vehicle for August 2025. According to the latest figures, the EV has racked up 5,811 deliveries between January and August this year, with 5,455 units sold locally and a further 356 exported to four international markets.

This milestone means the e.MAS 7 has been the country’s best-selling EV for eight consecutive months, maintaining its lead since the start of the year. Based on JPJ registration data, the car holds a 24% market share, meaning almost one in every four EVs sold in Malaysia is a Proton e.MAS 7.

Local Assembly Begins in Tanjung Malim

August also marked a significant step forward for Proton with the official opening of its first dedicated EV plant in Tanjung Malim. Up until now, the e.MAS 7 had been brought in as a completely built-up (CBU) model from China to keep up with strong early demand. With the new facility now operational, Proton will soon begin local assembly of the model, making the e.MAS 7 the brand’s first CKD EV.

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Hyundai Design Boss Calls Time on the LED Light Bar Trend

There was a time when cars could be recognised by their tail-lights. But today, many look the same because of one common feature – the LED light bar. From Tesla to Porsche, and especially on Chinese cars, the strip of light has become almost standard.

Hyundai’s design boss, Simon Loasby, thinks this trend is finished. At the launch of the Hyundai Concept Three, he said the light bar once worked well on models like the Grandeur, Kona, and Sonata.

But now, it’s too expensive to make and not every market wants it. In China, customers expect it. In Europe, it’s not as important.

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Porsche Breaks Ground on Experience Centre Singapore – Opening in 2027

Porsche Asia Pacific has officially begun work on its first regional Porsche Experience Centre (PEC) in Singapore, set to open doors in 2027. When completed, it will be the 11th facility of its kind worldwide and a major landmark for the brand in Southeast Asia.

Built on a sprawling 14-hectare site right next to Changi Airport, the new centre is being designed as more than just a playground for petrolheads. It will serve as a destination for families and enthusiasts alike, combining adrenaline-filled driving activities with lifestyle elements and event spaces.

At the heart of the development will be a two-kilometre handling circuit, supported by dynamic zones such as a drift circle and drift handling track. Visitors can also expect world-first features, rotating exhibitions, authentic displays from the Porsche Museum archives, immersive simulators, and a range of food and beverage options.

The Experience Centre will also break new ground for Porsche by housing a fully integrated, high-capacity Aftersales facility—something not yet seen in other PECs. Sustainability is a central pillar of the project, with an extensive electric vehicle fleet and eco-conscious infrastructure, aligning neatly with Singapore’s Green Plan 2030.

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GWM Rolls Out New Haval Big Dog Plus with Fresh Styling and PHEV Options

Great Wall Motor (GWM) has officially introduced the Haval Big Dog Plus, the latest evolution of its second-generation Big Dog SUV. The new model comes in five trims, priced between 135,800 yuan and 183,800 yuan (around RM88,000 to RM119,000), depending on the variant. Buyers will have the choice between plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and internal combustion engine (ICE) versions, offering a wide spread of options for different needs.

Visually, the SUV has been given a more distinctive look. The front end features a redesigned grille with a semi-closed pattern and a larger illuminated HAVAL logo that immediately stands out, while the familiar round headlights remain as signature elements.

At the back, the “HAVAL” script has been swapped for a bold “GWM” badge, marking a subtle shift in brand presentation. From the side, the fenders are now dressed with rivet-style details, adding to its rugged character.

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Geely Launches EX5 EM-i Hybrid SUV in Australia

Geely Auto has taken a major step into international markets with the debut of the all-new EX5 EM-i, also known as the Starray EM-i in some regions and the e.MAS 7 here in Malaysia. The unveiling in Australia marks the company’s first hybrid model to be sold outside of China, signalling the start of a broader global rollout for its electrified line-up.

Positioned in the highly competitive C-segment SUV category, the EX5 EM-i has been designed to stand out with ultra-low fuel consumption, extended range capability, and a contemporary design that balances efficiency with everyday usability.

At the heart of the EX5 EM-i is Geely’s new EM-i (E-Motive intelligence) Super Hybrid System, making its debut on this model. The powertrain combines a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine delivering 98hp and 125Nm with an electric motor producing 214hp and 320Nm. Together, they promise strong performance with a focus on efficiency and reduced emissions.

Built on Geely’s advanced GEA architecture, the SUV also delivers a spacious interior, intelligent driving features, and seamless connectivity to enhance both driving and passenger comfort.

The numbers make a compelling case. Under NEDC testing conditions, the EX5 EM-i can cover up to 943 km on a single tank and charge, while WLTP testing shows a pure-electric range of 83 km — enough for most daily commutes without using a drop of fuel.

For longer journeys, the hybrid system takes away the need to plan around charging stations, giving drivers the reassurance of long-distance capability without the anxiety often associated with fully electric cars.

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Subaru Goes Bold With 2026 WRX and BRZ Series.Yellow Editions

Subaru has decided to add some colour, quite literally, to its performance line-up with the introduction of two striking special editions: the 2026 Subaru WRX Series.Yellow and the 2026 Subaru BRZ Series.Yellow. Limited to just 350 units each, these models celebrate the brand’s rally-bred heritage while blending in modern tech and performance tweaks designed to thrill on both road and track.

Rarity is the name of the game here, as both cars are based on their hardcore tS trims, making them highly desirable collector’s items from day one.

The WRX Series.Yellow sticks to the Subaru formula of all-weather performance. It’s powered by a 2.4-litre turbocharged Boxer engine delivering 271hp and 350Nm of torque, paired exclusively with a six-speed manual gearbox. Subaru Tecnica International (STI) has had its hands on the suspension too, fitting adjustable dampers that promise flexibility between sharp handling and everyday comfort.

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Review: Mazda CX-60 – Driving Perfection?

There are a few cars from Japan that represent the joy of driving. I am not talking about sports cars because we all know there are plenty of those from the land of the rising sun.

But before going down this path for this article, I must acknowledge the greatness of the Honda Civic Type R, Nissan GT-R, Mazda MX-5, Toyota Supra and GR86. Even the Lexus LC and its glorious V8 deserves to be mentioned. Among many others of course.

Not acknowledging them would be tantamount to blasphemy.

I am instead talking about SUVs. When was the last time anyone spoke about SUVs from Japan that were fun to drive? There are many that are built well, have space age technology with immaculate craftsmanship and generally do what SUV’s do really well.

But a Japanese SUV that is fun to drive? That can only be a Mazda. (more…)

Toyota Teams Up with Huawei and Xiaomi for New bZ7 EV in China

Toyota has finally stepped fully into China’s fast-growing electric car market, and it’s doing things differently this time. Instead of working alone, Toyota has partnered with local tech giants Huawei and Xiaomi to build its latest model, the GAC Toyota bZ7.

The bZ7 is a large electric sedan, measuring over five metres long with a very spacious interior — something Chinese buyers value highly. While the design looks familiar to Toyota fans, the real changes are under the skin.

Toyota is using Huawei’s electric motor, which produces 278hp and pushes the car to a top speed of 180km/h. It’s not about being the fastest, but about being reliable and practical for families.

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