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Nadi Willer Expands Mobility-as-a-Service to Ease Malaysia’s Congestion Woes

Kuala Lumpur’s daily battle with gridlock could soon get some relief as Nadi Willer Sdn. Bhd. pushes forward with its Japanese-inspired Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) platform. The company, led by CEO Ibrahim Aiman Bin Mohd Nadzmi, wants to make it easier for Malaysians to get around without having to rely on private cars.

The core of its plan lies in mobi DRT (Demand Responsive Transit), an app-based on-demand service that works alongside trains and buses to plug the gap in first- and last-mile connections. By giving people a smooth way to reach public transport, the system aims to reduce car dependency and, in turn, help ease congestion in the city.

Traffic jams in Kuala Lumpur are a long-standing problem, made worse by limited feeder options to connect with the rail network. Many commuters still depend on private cars, family pick-ups or e-hailing services, while mid-distance public transport remains underused. Safety concerns from recent bus accidents have only added to the issue. Nadi Willer believes its MaaS solution directly addresses these shortcomings by merging mass transit with flexible on-demand rides.

The service has already made an impact. As of August 2025, mobi DRT is operating across 26 areas, recording more than 400,000 passengers and over 100,000 registered users. Surveys show that 88% of riders use mobi DRT specifically to reach public transport, a major behavioural shift considering nearly half of them previously relied on family pick-ups and a quarter drove their own cars.

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Proton Hits 15,228 Sales in August, Crosses 100,000 Mark for 2025

Proton recorded its best monthly sales in three years, moving 15,228 cars in August 2025. This helped the company cross the 100,000 sales mark for the year, keeping it as Malaysia’s second-best-selling car brand. The strong month gave Proton a 20.6% market share, one of its highest this year.

The new Proton X50 was the star of the month. After a strong debut in July, sales shot up to 4,287 units in August, making it Malaysia’s top-selling SUV and B-segment leader. In just 38 days, over 5,000 X50s have been sold. Proton said the success came from careful planning, with production and marketing campaigns ready even before launch.

The Proton Saga, fresh from its 40th anniversary, continued to shine. With 6,331 units sold in August, it remains Proton’s best-selling model, reaching 44,676 units this year.

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Chery O5 Officially Launched in Malaysia from RM116,800

Chery has officially introduced the O5 to the Malaysian market, a rebranded version of the Omoda 5 facelift, with prices starting from RM116,800.

The O5 comes in with a sharper look, courtesy of newly designed 18-inch alloy wheels that give the SUV a sportier stance and a pixel diamond grille.

Underneath, Chery has swapped in a multi-link rear suspension, promising improved ride quality and better comfort – something that will be welcomed on Malaysia’s often challenging roads.

Powering the O5 is a familiar 1.5-litre turbocharged engine that produces 156PS and 230Nm of torque. This is paired with a new 6-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The combination is designed to deliver the right mix of performance and everyday usability, ensuring the SUV drives as confidently as it looks.

Inside, the O5 aims to impress with a cabin that blends style and convenience. Faux leather upholstery is standard, with ventilated front seats to keep things cool in the heat.

Taking centre stage is a massive 20.5-inch integrated dual-screen display, offering seamless wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

The 442L boot capacity ensures you have plenty of room for all your belongings.

The cabin is further enhanced with a wireless charger, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a SONY premium audio system to keep entertainment levels high on every journey.

Safety and technology have also been given significant attention. The O5 is equipped with six airbags and a comprehensive ADAS Level 2 suite, covering advanced driver assistance features for added peace of mind.

On top of that, the SUV comes with a 540° camera system, providing drivers with an unmatched view of their surroundings for easier manoeuvring in tight spaces.

The new Chery O5 will be offered in four colour options: Carbon Black, Phantom Grey, Khaki White, and Blood Stone Red. Customers will be able to choose from these shades when selecting their vehicle.

As part of the standard package, Chery provides a 7-year warranty coverage or up to 150,000 km, along with 5 years of free service that covers labour costs only. This ensures peace of mind for long-term ownership.

Roadside assistance is also included, with 24/7 unlimited support available through the Chery Insurance Programme. This is designed to give drivers confidence on the road in case of emergencies.

For the launch package, additional benefits will be offered. These include 3 years of free all-inclusive service worth RM4,000, as well as 10 years of warranty coverage or up to 1,000,000 km, valued at RM2,000.

Furthermore, an attractive financing option will be available through Maybank, with monthly instalments starting at RM990.

With its refreshed styling, upgraded suspension, and feature-packed interior, the Chery O5 presents itself as a strong contender in Malaysia’s competitive SUV segment, offering a balance of technology, comfort, and value.

Volvo XC60 Gets a Fresh Update in Malaysia – T8 AWD Plug-in Hybrid and B5 AWD Mild Hybrid

Volvo Car Malaysia has given its best-selling XC60 a fresh update for 2025, building on the brand’s momentum after the debut of the EX90 and updated XC90 earlier this year. The facelifted SUV introduces sharper styling, new comfort-focused features, and the latest in-car technology.

Since its global launch, nearly 2.7 million units of the XC60 have been sold worldwide, with over 6,200 delivered in Malaysia. It continues to be Volvo’s most popular model locally.

The refreshed line-up will be offered in two variants: the T8 AWD Plug-in Hybrid, estimated to start from RM367,888, and the B5 AWD Mild Hybrid, expected to start from RM333,888.

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iCAUR 03 Officially Launched – Two Variants, Prices Start from RM119,800

Malaysia officially welcomes the iCAUR 03, making it the first market outside of China to receive the brand’s fully electric SUV. After its world premiere in Shanghai, the bold new model made its local debut at the Malaysia Autoshow 2025 and has now been officially launched, marking a significant step forward for the nation’s electric vehicle landscape.

The iCAUR 03 sets out to combine rugged off-road ability with cutting-edge electric technology. Its sharp, angular design language, known as i-BOX, together with futuristic lighting elements, gives the SUV a striking presence. But beyond the looks, the model brings plenty of substance.

It is equipped with the iROAD system that offers 12 selectable drive modes, supported by a precision H-arm multilink rear suspension. At the heart of its performance is a 6-in-1 electric drive module, neatly packaging the motor controller, onboard charger, and inverter into a single compact unit for seamless power delivery across various terrains.

Safety has been given serious attention with the iCARE architecture, featuring Malaysia’s first all-aluminium monocoque chassis and body in an electric SUV. This provides a torsional rigidity of 31,812 Nm/deg—comparable to high-performance sports cars—while also cutting overall weight by 30 per cent.

To further boost safety, the SUV is equipped with a four-layer IPX8-rated armour system to protect its lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery. This includes a 10mm aluminium impact shield, a Mica ceramic thermal barrier capable of withstanding temperatures beyond 1,000°C, along with two additional protective layers, ensuring reliable operation across demanding conditions.

Step inside, and the iCAUR 03 offers a tech-driven cockpit under the iBRAND banner. Drivers are greeted with a 15.6-inch touchscreen, a 9.2-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 12-speaker INFINITY audio setup.

Adding to the futuristic vibe is a 540° Transparent Chassis camera, all tied together with the i-VA interface designed to keep drivers seamlessly connected and in control.

The SUV will be available in two drivetrain options. The 2WD model comes with a 184PS motor producing 220Nm of torque, powered by a 65.7kWh battery capable of delivering up to 426km of range (NEDC).

For those craving more capability, the iWD dual-motor variant puts out 279PS and 385Nm, paired with a 69.8kWh battery offering 418km of range. This version has been tuned for superior off-road performance, with added traction and stability in challenging conditions.

On the safety front, the iCAUR 03 incorporates Level 2.5 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Features such as Emergency Lane Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Traffic Jam Assist aim to provide drivers with more confidence and peace of mind whether on highways or in the city.

The iCAUR 03 is available in five colours – Silver, Grey, White, Black, and the signature Aurora Green – and is priced at RM119,800 for the 2WD variant and RM129,800 for the iWD variant.

Buyers have a 7 years or 150,000km vehicle warranty, alongside an 8 years or 160,000km battery and drive unit warranty.

Ensuring the best protection for their investment, iCAUR customers will also benefit from the CARE Insurance Programme, developed in collaboration with Allianz General Insurance, Berjaya Sompo, AIG, Etiqa Takaful, Zurich, and Zurich Takaful.

This exclusive coverage goes beyond traditional protection to safeguard the EV Wallbox chargers and portable charging cables, complemented by unlimited towing services.

While Malaysia’s EV market has recently seen aggressive discounting, iCAUR takes a different approach by focusing on long-term value and ownership benefits.

The Black Phantom Edition can be specified for an additional RM20,000, featuring an exclusive exterior bodykit, matte-black finish, roof rack platform, and side-ladder.

Initially available as a fully built-up (CBU) import, local assembly of the iCAUR 03 will commence in January 2026 at the Chery Corporate Malaysia, Shah Alam plant, where it will join production alongside OMODA I JAECOO Malaysia models.

In tandem with the launch, ¡CAUR Malaysia reaffirmed its commitment to exceptional customer experiences, announcing plans for up to 18 points of sale and nine fully fledged iCAUR service centres nationwide by September. This includes planned openings in Sabah and Sarawak within Q4 2025.

Malaysia Opens First-Ever Vehicle Forensics Lab to Boost Crime and Accident Investigations

CyberSecurity Malaysia (CSM), an agency under the Ministry of Digital, has officially launched the nation’s first Vehicle Forensics Laboratory, marking a big step forward in strengthening Malaysia’s digital forensic capabilities.

According to Bernama, the facility, unveiled by Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo, will play a crucial role in supporting investigations into road accidents as well as criminal cases linked to vehicles, including smuggling, human trafficking, and cross-border crime.

The new lab has been designed to collect, manage and analyse the vast amount of data generated by modern vehicles. Gobind explained that today’s cars are far more than just machines for transport – they are also digital data centres on wheels, storing information such as engine performance, driving behaviour, GPS locations, camera footage, and even infotainment system usage.

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Toyota Marks Strong August Sales as Malaysians Embrace Multipathway Mobility

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) closed August 2025 on a high, recording 9,083 units sold for the month. This performance pushed the brand’s year-to-date total to 62,246 vehicles, a result that reinforces Toyota’s standing as Malaysia’s most trusted non-national marque. The steady demand is being credited to Toyota’s Multipathway approach, which balances electrified options with tried-and-tested models that continue to serve everyday needs.

Toyota’s product strategy remains centred on giving Malaysians technology that fits their lifestyles, whether through dependable petrol models or accessible hybrid solutions. The company maintains that this balance is guided by Toyota’s global Mobility for All philosophy, a vision that places emphasis on delivering the right innovation at the right time without leaving customers behind.

Toyota’s history in Malaysia stretches back more than six decades. Since the first locally assembled Corolla rolled out in 1968, the brand has become deeply woven into Malaysian life. Models such as the Hilux, Vios and Camry are more than just popular choices – they have evolved into household names, trusted by families, businesses and communities alike. From balik kampung trips during festive seasons to hard-working pick-ups supporting farmers and traders, Toyota has consistently been part of Malaysia’s journey through growth and progress.

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Toyota Launches GR Malaysia eRacing Championship 2025

UMW Toyota Motor and Toyota GAZOO Racing Malaysia have kicked off the Toyota GR Malaysia eRacing Championship 2025, the country’s biggest simulator racing series. The goal is simple — to find Malaysia’s fastest virtual drivers and give them a chance to move into real-life motorsport.

Now in its eighth year and previously known as the GT Cup Malaysia, the championship has been rebranded with a bigger focus. This year, racers will compete not only on Gran Turismo, but also on RaceRoom, Assetto Corsa, and iRacing, testing their skills across different platforms. A prize pool of RM123,000 is up for grabs, split across three categories: Pro, Club, and Junior.

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Proton Opens Malaysia’s First Dedicated EV Assembly Plant at Tanjung Malim

Malaysia marked a major milestone in its automotive history with the launch of the nation’s first assembly plant dedicated exclusively to electric vehicle (EV) production. Prime Minister YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim officiated the opening at Proton’s Tanjung Malim facility, located within the Automotive High Tech Valley (AHTV). Full-scale production begins this month, just seven months after the groundbreaking ceremony held on 7 February.

The Proton e.MAS 7, introduced in December last year and now regarded as Malaysia’s best-selling EV, will be the first model to be completely knocked down (CKD) and assembled at the plant. It will soon be followed by Proton’s second EV, the e.MAS 5. As part of Proton’s collaboration with Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, the facility will also assemble other premium marques under Geely’s portfolio, including Zeekr.

The event was attended by several key figures, including YAB Dato’ Seri Saarani bin Mohamad, Menteri Besar of Perak, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry YB Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Transport Minister YB Loke Siew Fook, and Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation YB Chang Lih Kang. Also present were Tan Sri Syed Faisal Albar, Group Managing Director of DRB-HICOM and Chairman of Proton, Li Shufu, Chairman of Geely Holding Group, and Proton Chief Executive Officer, Dr Li Chunrong.

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New Mazda CX-80 Officially Launched in Malaysia – Prices Start from RM330,000

Bermaz Motor has officially introduced the New Mazda CX-80 to the Malaysian market, marking the arrival of Mazda’s second model from its Large Product Group. Positioned as the brand’s flagship three-row SUV, the CX-80 represents a bold step forward for Mazda in combining luxury, performance and family-friendly versatility.

First revealed in Europe in April 2024 and previewed locally at the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show the same year, the CX-80 is built around Mazda’s “Graceful Toughness” design philosophy. It combines Japanese artistry with purposeful engineering, embodying the brand’s Jinba-Ittai ethos – the seamless connection between car and driver – while catering to the modern family with advanced comfort, space and safety.

From the outside, the CX-80 makes a commanding impression. Its elongated proportions, stretched wheelbase and tapered cabin design give it both elegance and presence. A sculpted grille framed by slim adaptive LED headlamps, flowing body lines and carefully placed chrome details highlight Mazda’s mastery of Kodo design, while signature L-shaped lighting at the front and rear reinforces the SUV’s unmistakable identity. Subtle play of light and shadow across its body panels reflects the Takumi craftsmanship that defines Mazda’s premium models.

The cabin extends this sense of refinement, blending minimalism with functionality. Designed with Mazda’s human-centric philosophy, the interior creates a natural sense of connection between driver and machine. Horizontal dashboard lines, intuitively placed controls and premium materials establish an atmosphere of calm sophistication. The six-seat configuration features captain-style chairs in the second row with a full-length centre console, while the third row offers a generous two-seat bench. Ambient lighting, soft-touch finishes and thoughtful conveniences such as wireless charging and discreet storage highlight Mazda’s meticulous approach to interior comfort.

Technology takes centre stage in the CX-80’s cabin. A trio of displays – a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and a head-up display – provide clear and intuitive access to vital information. Mazda’s Driver Personalisation System, introduced on its Large Architecture models, recognises individual drivers and automatically adjusts over 250 settings, from seating position to mirrors and head-up display configuration. A 12-speaker Bose audio system adds to the sense of immersion, while smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ensures seamless connectivity.

Powering the CX-80 is Mazda’s advanced 2.5-litre e-Skyactiv PHEV system, pairing a Skyactiv-G four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor for a combined output of 323hp and 500Nm of torque. Energy is stored in a 17.8 kWh lithium-ion battery, offering up to 65km of zero-emission electric driving. The SUV achieves a top speed of 195km/h and returns a WLTP fuel consumption of 1.6 l/100 km, with CO₂ emissions as low as 36 g/km.

The CX-80 sits on Mazda’s front-engine, rear-focused all-wheel-drive Large Architecture Platform, delivering the brand’s hallmark balance of agility, stability and comfort. Double wishbone front suspension, a multi-link rear setup and i-Activ AWD work together to ensure precise handling and confidence in varied conditions, while Kinematic Posture Control enhances cornering stability. The SUV’s Mi-Drive system offers selectable driving modes, tailoring performance to suit different terrains and driving styles.

Safety has also been given equal priority. The CX-80 secured a five-star rating in Euro NCAP’s 2024 crash tests, reflecting Mazda’s commitment to protecting occupants and vulnerable road users alike. Its suite of i-Activsense safety technologies includes Adaptive LED Headlamps, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear and Front Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning with Lane-Keep Assist, Smart Brake Support, Driver Attention Alert with monitoring, and Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go, among others.

For Malaysia, the New Mazda CX-80 will be offered fully imported (CBU) from Japan, with prices starting from RM330,000. It is available in a refined palette of colours, including Melting Copper, Artisan Red, Rhodium White, Jet Black and Platinum Quartz, each designed to highlight the SUV’s sculpted form.

To provide added assurance, Bermaz Motor includes a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty and a 5-year free maintenance programme covering labour, parts and lubricants (excluding the Mazda BT-50). The high-voltage battery is backed by an 8-year or 160,000 km warranty, ensuring peace of mind for customers investing in Mazda’s flagship SUV.

With the introduction of the CX-80, Mazda has delivered more than just another premium SUV – it has crafted a vehicle that balances Japanese artistry, advanced technology and electrified performance in a package designed for modern families who refuse to compromise.