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Merdeka Spirit Shines Bright at MSPAE’s ‘Fun Drive with Gurpuri Kids’

The run-up to Malaysia’s 68th Independence Day received a spirited and high-octane boost as the Malaysia Singapore Punjabi Automotive Enthusiasts (MSPAE) hosted their charity event, Fun Drive with Gurpuri Kids, at SSU Kelab Aman.

The gathering, held just a week before Hari Merdeka, brought together more than 30 children from the Gurpuri Foundation for a day filled with speed, excitement, and camaraderie. Staying true to its motto of Unity Through Motoring, MSPAE created an atmosphere that mirrored the national theme of unity, showcasing a fleet of cars and bikes that ranged from sleek modern supercars to cherished classics. For the children, many of whom had only dreamt of stepping inside such machines, the experience of being driven in them was nothing short of magical.

Beyond the thrill rides, the event also fulfilled a greater purpose, raising RM5,000 for the Gurpuri Foundation. The funds will go towards the foundation’s mission of providing shelter, education, and care to underprivileged children.

The programme began with a grand arrival and welcoming speeches, before moving into an afternoon of lively activities. The young guests took part in football and netball matches, a Hockey Shoot-Out, and various telematch games that kept the energy levels soaring. Adding to the day’s inspiration were appearances from two distinguished figures. National rally legend and multiple Malaysian Rally Champion, Karamjit Singh – affectionately known as the Flying Sikh – spoke to the children about perseverance and the pursuit of speed, while Dr Ranmeet Jassal, Miss Universe Malaysia Finalist, shared an empowering message that encouraged them to embrace independence and chase their ambitions.

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Chery Malaysia Opens Early Registration for the New Chery O5

Chery Malaysia is preparing to unveil the new Chery O5, inviting the public to register their interest ahead of its official reveal later this month. As one of the brand’s most recognisable global models, the O5 has already built a strong following thanks to its futuristic styling, dynamic performance, and advanced safety features. The latest version aims to elevate the experience even further with a bolder design, refined driving dynamics, and a suite of new technologies.

Visually, the new Chery O5 makes a strong impression with its redesigned 18-inch alloy wheels that add a sharper edge to its stance. Beneath the surface, a multi-link rear suspension has been introduced to ensure improved comfort and a smoother ride, particularly over Malaysian roads.

Step inside, and the cabin combines sophistication with practicality. Faux leather seats with front ventilation provide comfort, while the interior’s centrepiece is a striking 20.5-inch integrated dual screen. The system comes seamlessly connected with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, supported by a wireless charger and dual-zone automatic climate control, ensuring that both driver and passengers remain connected and comfortable.

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Nissan Navara X-Tremer Launches in Malaysia with Bold New Look and Enhanced Features

Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) has opened bookings for the New Nissan Navara X-Tremer, a pickup engineered to thrive both on city streets and in the rough. Marketed as more than just an update, the X-Tremer is being positioned as a statement of rugged capability and expressive style.

The Navara X-Tremer continues to deliver the model’s well-known toughness but now comes with sharper visual distinction. The front end wears a new black grille paired with an X-formation bumper cladding, while carbon fibre-look fender garnishes and black over-fenders further enhance its muscular stance. At the rear, a new shark fin antenna, a redesigned black bumper, and a bold tailgate decal make the truck instantly recognisable and set it apart from the standard Navara range.

Inside, Nissan has introduced a number of updates designed to blend durability with comfort. A soft-touch dashboard with double stitching, a modernised centre console and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with a smooth-grain finish lift the overall cabin ambience. Technology plays a key role too, with an 8-inch infotainment screen supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay to ensure seamless connectivity. Seating has also been improved with stain-resistant QUOLE MODURE upholstery, designed to minimise heat build-up, while the Zero Gravity front seats continue to provide long-distance comfort and reduced fatigue.

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GWM Malaysia Merdeka Book and Win

If the GWM Tank 500 captivated you but you have been waiting for a good time to buy one, the time has just arrived, thanks to GWM’s Merdeka Campaign 2025.

Officially launched earlier this year, the GWM Tank 500 is arguably one of the hottest SUV’s to hit the Malaysian automotive segment in recent times.

Priced at just RM328,000, the Tank 500 offers luxury, space and off-road capability that can rival a Toyota Land Cruiser.

Powering the Tank 500 is a hybrid powertrain combining a 2.0-litre, turbocharged engine to an electric motor. This produces a combined 346PS and 648Nm of torque, which is good to catapult the Tank 500 to 100km/h in just 7.3 seconds.

Featuring Nappa leather and real wood trimming, the interior of the Tank 500 is a combination of space, versatility and luxury making it perfect for those who want a big SUV for their family and even to be driven in as well.

The full sized panoramic roof as well as ventilated seats ensure comfort in all situations while a 12-speaker Infinity sound system with wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto provide comfort and navigation.

For those who demand more from their SUV’s and need off-roading capabilities, the Tank 500 comes with an intelligent four-wheel-drive system with electronically controlled front and rear differential locks.

It even has 11 driving modes to tackle any situation, and a tank turn assist that lets it easily maneuver in tight spaces by locking the inner rear wheel.

Making it easier to manage its massive size multiple sensors that aid parking as well as a 360 camera with transparent chassis view, showing you what’s underneath the car.

In conjunction with Merdeka, GWM Malaysia is hosting a special book and win campaign, making September the ideal month to book a GWM Tank 500, or any GWM model for that matter.

Happening now until the 28th of September 2025, you stand to win prizes worth RM120,000 if you book a GWM Tank 500 on any weekend until the 28th of September.

By booking the GWM Tank 500, you will automatically qualify to be part of two lucky draws. One on the spot lucky draw and an entry into the Grand Lucky Draw with prizes worth up to RM120,000.

The prizes include an iPhone 16 Pro, Nintendo Switch 2, DJI Osmo Pocket 3, Philips Air Purifier, Xiaomi X20+ Robot Vacuum, Samsung Galaxy A56, Marshall Acton III and even a Dyson Cool Fan, among others.

And if you can’t visit a GWM showroom, not to worry, as GWM is set to go on a nationwide roadshow to bring the GWM experience directly to Malaysians. This roadshow offers test drives, interactive activities and roadshow-exclusive deals.

Roadshow dates and locations are as follows:

Central Region:

Mid Valley Kuala Lumpur: 10-14 September

GF Luxe, 1 Utama: 7 October – 6 November

Northern Region:

Sunway Carnival Mall, Penang: 30 October – 2 November

Ipoh Parade: 6 – 9 November

For those situated in Klang, GWM Malaysia has officially opened its latest showroom. Located at PT 4209, Jalan Kapar, Kawasan 18, the new showroom spans 3,900sq ft and features a 1,140 sq ft customer lounge, three fully equipped service bays and is capable of servicing up to 200 vehicles each month.

The new showroom is open daily from 9am to 6pm for sales, and from 8am to 530pm for service.

Lotus Malaysia Introduces Refreshed Eletre Line-up with New Variants and Streamlined Options

Lotus Cars Malaysia, managed by Lotus Karz Sdn. Bhd. under the Karrus Automotive Group, has unveiled the updated Lotus Eletre range, signalling a new chapter for the brand’s first all-electric hyper-SUV. The revised line-up not only introduces simplified model names and equipment packages but also enhances performance benchmarks for the premium EV segment, with pricing now starting from RM499,000.

In line with Lotus’ global naming strategy, the refreshed Eletre range adopts a clearer designation system, with models now identified as the Eletre 600 and Eletre 900, denoting their respective power outputs. The move follows the same philosophy introduced with the Lotus Emeya, ensuring customers can easily distinguish performance levels across the brand’s expanding portfolio.

Each variant of the Eletre is offered with a curated package, giving buyers the freedom to select a sport-oriented specification or a more comfort and technology-focused configuration. This approach simplifies the buying process while retaining the flexibility for personalisation, ensuring customers can tailor their vehicle to match individual preferences and lifestyles.

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Bank Negara Clarifies Knock-For-Knock Insurance Policy for Motorists

Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) has provided further clarity on the Own Damage Knock-For-Knock (ODKFK) policy, a system designed to make the claims process easier for motorists involved in accidents where they are not at fault.

According to BFM Radio, under this policy, drivers with comprehensive motor insurance can now claim directly from their own insurers without affecting their No-Claim Discount (NCD). This ensures vehicle owners can have their cars repaired promptly without having to cover upfront costs or face long delays while waiting for the third-party insurer to process the claim. To initiate a claim, motorists only need to submit a police report and the necessary supporting documents to their insurance provider.

However, BNM also highlighted certain exceptions. If an accident involves public transport vehicles such as buses or taxis, or if it results in injuries, the claim must be made against the at-fault party’s insurer rather than under the ODKFK arrangement.

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PLUS Anticipates Heavier Traffic Flow for Merdeka Holiday, Introduces Enhanced App Features for Travellers

PLUS Malaysia Berhad (PLUS) is preparing for a significant surge in highway traffic in conjunction with the 68th National Day celebrations, with projections of up to 2.2 million vehicles making their way across its network on 31 August and 1 September.

In anticipation of the increase, the highway operator has urged motorists to plan their journeys ahead of time to avoid congestion and ensure a more comfortable drive. To support this, PLUS has rolled out several enhancements to its MyPLUS-TTA feature within the PLUS mobile application, aimed at making route planning more seamless, even outside the typical festive travel periods.

Among the new functions is the ability for users to save frequently travelled routes under the ‘Favourite Routes’ section, allowing quicker access during busy periods. The app also now displays real-time alerts directly on the search results page, giving drivers immediate updates on traffic flow and conditions. A revised drop-down menu has replaced the previous scrolling method for route selection, providing a faster and more user-friendly experience.

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Lotus Malaysia Hosts Cars, Coffee and KEF Experience at Lotus KL

Lotus Malaysia recently invited us over to their Lotus KL showroom for an exclusive Cars, Coffee and KEF experience. The event combined test drives of Lotus’ latest electric lineup, a showcase of premium audio, and a touch of café indulgence, all in true Lotus style.

New Line-up: Lotus Emeya and Eletre

At the heart of the showcase were the 2026 Lotus Emeya and Eletre, two all-electric models that signal the brand’s expanding direction. This was not about price cuts or special editions, but rather an introduction to a broader range of options for customers.

One of the easiest ways to differentiate the new line-up from the earlier models is by the badging at the rear. Lotus now reflects power output in the model names, with badges marked either 600 or 900.

Both the Emeya and Eletre are available in five variants:

600
600 GT SE
600 Sport SE
900 Sport
900 Sport Carbon

Customers can also choose interior materials ranging from the standard Lotus Wear Performance fabric to Nappa leather or Alcantara at an additional cost.

Driving the Emeya 600

We had the chance to get behind the wheel of the Emeya 600, which produces 603 hp and comes with an all-wheel drive system. Despite being an EV, the Emeya delivered an engaging drive that may just change the minds of sceptics.

The active air suspension with continuous damping control worked seamlessly on Malaysian roads, soaking up imperfections without compromising responsiveness. Power delivery was smooth and progressive, making the car exciting yet comfortable to drive without being overwhelming.

Inside, the Lotus Wear fabric seats proved to be comfortable and supportive, underlining Lotus’ focus on blending performance with practicality.

KEF Audio: Cinema on Wheels

The experience wasn’t just about driving. We also spent time in the Eletre to sample its KEF sound system, and the results were nothing short of cinematic.

The entry-level variant comes with 15 speakers, while higher trims get a staggering 23-speaker setup, paired with Dolby Atmos for a truly immersive soundstage. Crisp, clear and powerful, the system transforms the cabin into a private concert hall or movie theatre, depending on your playlist.

Coffee, Lotus Style

To complete the lifestyle angle, the event served up a 3-course coffee experience, complete with mini croissants, sourdough slices, and a rich chocolate mousse. It was a fitting finish to a day that blended performance, luxury, and indulgence.

Pricing in Malaysia

The new models are positioned firmly in the premium EV segment. The Lotus Emeya is priced from RM459,000 to RM699,000, while the Eletre starts at RM499,000 and tops out at RM769,000.

With performance, luxury and advanced technology wrapped in striking designs, the Emeya and Eletre look set to redefine how Malaysians experience Lotus in the electric age.

smart #5 Previewed in Malaysia – 636hp and 710Nm of Torque!

Smart Malaysia has given a first look at its new flagship electric SUV, the smart #5, ahead of its expected market launch. Positioned above the #1 and #3 models, the new SUV promises more space, stronger performance, and long-range capability, placing it directly in competition with established premium EVs.

The smart #5 will be offered in three versions: Pro, Premium and BRABUS.

The entry-level Pro comes with a 76 kWh battery and a single rear motor producing 335hp and 373Nm. It does the 0–100 km/h sprint in 6.9 seconds with a top speed of 200 km/h, while range is claimed at 465 km (WLTP). Features include PU leather seats, a powered tailgate, 9-speaker audio system and 256-colour ambient lighting. Boot space is 630L, expandable to 1,530L with the rear seats folded.

The Premium raises the bar with a 100 kWh battery for up to 590 km of range. Output is 358hp, 373Nm of torque, and it accelerates to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds. Inside, there’s Nappa leather upholstery, a 20-speaker Sennheiser system with Dolby Atmos, and an augmented reality head-up display. The variant also gains illuminated concealed door handles, dual wireless chargers and faster 22 kW AC charging.

At the top of the range, the BRABUS edition delivers true performance credentials. Dual motors provide 636hp and 710Nm, cutting the 0–100 km/h time down to 3.8 seconds and pushing top speed to 210 km/h. It also comes with sport suspension, larger 21-inch alloys, red brake callipers and simulated engine sound. The BRABUS uses an 800V charging setup, allowing a 10–80% charge in just 15 minutes with a 400 kW DC charger.

The smart #5 is equipped with 26 sensors, including cameras, radars and ultrasonic units, powered by Nvidia OrinX chips. This supports L2+ advanced driver assistance systems, including Smart Pilot Assist, Auto Lane Change Assist and autonomous parking.

Safety has also been prioritised, with the model designed to meet both European and Chinese 5-star NCAP standards. The body uses 82% high-strength steel and achieves a torsional rigidity of 42,300 Nm/deg, well above segment norms.

A long 2,900 mm wheelbase ensures generous cabin space. The rear seats offer reclining functions and modes that can transform the cabin into nap or bed layouts. Luggage capacity extends up to 1,530L, complemented by a 72L frunk.

Premium materials such as real wood trims, laminated soundproof glass and Nappa leather feature throughout, while a panoramic glass roof with a powered sunshade adds to the sense of space.

In Malaysia, the smart #5 will compete with models such as the Tesla Model Y, BYD Sealion 7, Zeekr 7X and Xpeng G6, while the BRABUS edition will target buyers looking at performance EVs like the BMW iX3 and MINI Countryman SE.

With three variants on offer, ranging from practical to high-performance, the smart #5 is shaping up to be one of the most versatile premium EV SUVs entering the Malaysian market.

PREMIUM

BRABUS

iCAUR Glenmarie: First Global Dealership Opens in Malaysia Ahead of iCAUR 03 Launch

iCAUR Malaysia has officially opened its first dealership, iCAUR Glenmarie, in Shah Alam, marking a major milestone for the young EV marque. More than just a local debut, this flagship facility is also the brand’s first dealership worldwide, underscoring Malaysia’s significance as a launchpad for iCAUR’s global journey.

The dealership is operated by Absolute Motor Sdn Bhd and represents a pivotal step as iCAUR moves closer to the introduction of its first model, the iCAUR 03, which will be launched on 9 September 2025.

Within just four months of its debut at the Malaysian Autoshow 2025, iCAUR has established itself as a brand that embodies individuality, playfulness, and modern mobility. The Glenmarie outlet reflects this spirit, setting the tone for a global network that aims to deliver vehicles defined by bold design, advanced technology and a lifestyle-focused ecosystem.

Absolute Motor’s commitment to the brand was clear from the outset, with the company positioning itself as the first in the world to establish an iCAUR dealership. The partnership is rooted in a shared belief in sustainable mobility and the growing demand for electric vehicles that complement contemporary lifestyles.

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