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Proton has officially pulled the covers off the All-New Proton X50 in an exclusive preview for members of the Malaysian media, showcasing a reimagined version of its best-selling B-segment SUV. We now get to show you the full gallery and detailed pictures. Building on the success of its predecessor—launched in October 2020 and having amassed over 134,000 units sold—the new X50 signals a new chapter in Proton’s SUV evolution, with a sharper design language, elevated interior appointments, and comprehensive tech upgrades.

The latest X50 marks a significant departure from the outgoing model, both visually and technologically. The exterior receives a substantial makeover, featuring a redesigned front grille and bumper, a sleeker rear spoiler, and quad exhaust tailpipes that lend a sportier edge to the SUV’s rear profile. A new two-tone colour palette adds further sophistication, while intricately textured alloy wheels tie the styling together. Returning colour choices include Snow White, Passion Red, Jet Grey, and Armour Silver, now joined by a new standout hue, Teal Bayou Green.

Inside the cabin, Proton has significantly raised the bar. Premium soft-touch materials now wrap key touchpoints, while a floating floor console and luxury-style column shifters bring a more refined, executive feel. One of the most notable upgrades is the inclusion of a 72-colour rhythmic ambient lighting system, allowing owners to customise the cabin environment to their personal tastes.

At the centre of the technological overhaul is a commanding 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, offering seamless integration with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. This generation also introduces voice recognition in Bahasa Melayu, reflecting Proton’s push to enhance accessibility and user-friendliness for Malaysian drivers. Further extending the tech experience is the updated Proton Link 2.0 app, which enables remote engine and air-conditioning activation, live vehicle status monitoring, and service appointment scheduling—all from a mobile device.

Safety has received equal attention. The All-New X50 comes equipped with a refined Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS), now featuring a Rear Side Radar System (RSRS) to improve blind spot awareness. The enhanced Auto Park Assist system adds ease to urban manoeuvres, while a new 360-degree HD camera—complete with a 180-degree undercarriage transparent view—provides drivers with exceptional visibility around and beneath the vehicle. These features build on the model’s 5-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating, reinforcing its status as one of the safest SUVs in its class.

Powering the new X50 is the cutting-edge 1.5-litre i-GT turbocharged direct-injection four-cylinder engine, delivering 181PS and 290Nm of torque. Mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, the SUV now sprints from 0 to 100km/h in 7.6 seconds—an improvement of 0.3 seconds over the previous model. In tandem with this performance boost is a 4.7% increase in fuel efficiency, offering improved economy without compromising on driving engagement.

Proton’s latest offering redefines expectations for compact SUVs in Malaysia. With its dynamic new look, intelligent features, and enhanced driving dynamics, the All-New X50 positions itself as not only a flagship for the brand’s growing SUV line-up but also a strong contender to lead the segment in style, safety, and innovation.

Honda Malaysia has officially opened bookings for the highly anticipated New Honda HR-V, ahead of its scheduled launch in the third quarter of 2025. Bookings can be made at all authorised dealerships nationwide as well as through the brand’s online platforms.

The updated HR-V arrives as a refreshed contender in the B-segment SUV category, reinforcing its position as one of Honda’s most successful models in Malaysia. With over 169,000 units sold since its local debut in 2015, the HR-V has long established itself as the country’s best-selling non-national B-SUV. For the first five months of 2025, it has continued to dominate sales for Honda Malaysia.

Building on its legacy of style, practicality and performance, the latest iteration of the HR-V boasts an enhanced exterior and updated mechanical offerings. The new design presents a bolder and smarter aesthetic, featuring a streamlined minimalist front grille, striking 18-inch two-tone alloy wheels, and a full LED taillight strip that emphasises the vehicle’s modern presence.

The New HR-V e:HEV RS variant leads the charge with its intelligent hybrid powertrain, combining efficiency with an engaging driving experience. The 1.5-litre e:HEV system produces 131PS and 253Nm of torque, delivering smooth acceleration and responsive hybrid performance. Drivers can choose between three distinct driving modes – Econ, Normal, and Sport – to suit various road conditions and personal preferences.

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In a move that signals its confidence in the engineering integrity of its vehicles, Denza Malaysia has announced a revised maintenance schedule for its customers, effective 1 July 2025. The first scheduled maintenance for all Denza models will now take place at 20,000 kilometres or one year from the date of delivery, depending on which comes first.

This marks a significant departure from the previous guideline, which required the initial inspection at 5,000 kilometres or after three months. The change not only underscores Denza’s assurance in the long-term durability of its vehicles but also reflects its commitment to streamlining ownership and elevating customer convenience.

The decision to extend the initial service interval is rooted in Denza’s confidence in the strength and dependability of its vehicles. Built on a foundation of advanced engineering and manufacturing expertise, Denza’s models are designed to operate efficiently with less frequent early intervention, providing peace of mind to owners and reinforcing the brand’s premium positioning in the market.

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Caltex Havoline, the premium lubricant brand marketed by Caltex Malaysia, has introduced a new fully synthetic engine oil specifically engineered for hybrid vehicles. The newly launched Caltex Havoline Fully Synthetic Hybrid SAE 0W-20 promises to elevate engine performance while addressing the unique challenges posed by hybrid powertrains.

As hybrid vehicles become increasingly common on Malaysian roads, there is growing demand for lubricants that can adapt to the specific operating conditions of hybrid engines. These engines frequently operate at lower temperatures and face distinct risks, including the build-up of low-temperature sludge, corrosion, and premature wear. Recognising this, Caltex has developed a proprietary formulation that directly addresses these concerns.

The new lubricant boasts exceptional water and fuel dilution performance, achieved through advanced emulsion-forming technology that ensures consistent oil flow even in the presence of moisture. This helps maintain optimal engine lubrication, contributing to smoother and more reliable operation.

Additionally, the engine oil offers enhanced protection against rust and corrosion, forming a protective barrier on engine components to guard against the harmful effects of fuel and water contamination. This added layer of protection contributes to longer engine life and sustained performance.

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Proton has previewed the All-New Proton X50 to members of the Malaysian media, signalling the company’s first major model launch of 2025. As anticipation builds, the B-segment SUV—already a dominant force in its category since its October 2020 debut with over 134,000 units sold—returns with a striking new design, expanded technological features, and improved performance.

The updated X50, which has held the top spot in its class for five consecutive years, is set to raise the benchmark once again. It now arrives in three distinct variants—Executive, Premium, and Flagship—each benefitting from a thorough overhaul that touches every aspect of the vehicle, from aesthetics and safety to power and connectivity.

Proton is rolling out a series of promotional events ahead of the official launch to familiarise the public with the SUV’s new features and begin accepting early bookings. The campaign reflects Proton’s confidence in its most advanced X50 to date.

Visually, the All-New X50 departs from its predecessor with a bolder, more refined exterior. Notable updates include a redesigned front grille and bumper, a more athletic rear spoiler, and quad exhaust tailpipes that emphasise its performance credentials. A two-tone colour scheme adds visual flair, further complemented by textured alloy wheels that complete the look.

Inside, the transformation continues with an elevated interior experience. Soft-touch materials, a luxury-inspired floating floor console, and column-mounted shifters bring a touch of class. Meanwhile, a 72-colour rhythmic ambient lighting system allows for personalisation rarely seen in the segment. In addition to four familiar colour choices—Snow White, Passion Red, Jet Grey, and Armour Silver—the X50 welcomes a fresh and distinctive option: Teal Bayou Green.

At the heart of the SUV’s technology offering is a significantly enlarged 14.6-inch infotainment display, which now supports both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Notably, Proton introduces voice recognition in Bahasa Melayu for the first time, delivering a more localised and intuitive user experience.

The new Proton Link 2.0 app enhances daily usability with a range of remote functions, including engine and air-conditioning activation, live vehicle status updates, and service appointment scheduling—all accessible via a smartphone.

Safety remains a core pillar of the new X50. The model incorporates Proton’s upgraded Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), now bolstered by the addition of a Rear Side Radar System (RSRS). The Auto Park Assist system has also been refined, and the inclusion of a 360-degree HD camera with a 180-degree undercarriage transparent view significantly improves situational awareness.

These features are paired with a 5-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating, reaffirming the vehicle’s strong safety credentials and making it one of the most secure options in its class.

Beneath the bonnet lies the next-generation 1.5-litre i-GT TD engine, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. This combination generates an impressive 181PS and 290 Nm of torque, enabling the SUV to sprint from 0 to 100km/h in just 7.6 seconds, shaving 0.3 seconds off its predecessor’s time.

Fuel economy has also been improved, with a 4.7% increase in efficiency that underscores the brand’s commitment to sustainable performance without compromising driving excitement.

With the All-New X50, Proton is not only setting new standards for itself but also reaffirming its ambition to lead the local SUV segment through innovation, accessibility, and design excellence.

Chinese premium electric vehicle brand Zeekr has announced the formation of Zeekr Intelligent Technology (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, a dedicated National Sales Company (NSC) established to oversee its operations in the Malaysian market. The move signals a decisive commitment by Zeekr to deepen its roots in Southeast Asia and elevate its standing in Malaysia’s fast-growing EV landscape.

The NSC will take direct control of core business functions including wholesale distribution, dealer network development, brand strategy, marketing initiatives, and aftersales support nationwide. Zeekr’s latest step comes on the back of rapid international growth, having already reached 500,000 mass-produced vehicles globally as of June and successfully entering over 40 countries and regions.

According to Alex Bao, Managing Director of Zeekr Southeast Asia, Malaysia represents a pivotal market for the brand within the region. He stated that significant investments are being channelled into building a sustainable and customer-centric presence. Bao noted that the formation of the NSC would serve as a bridge between Zeekr and Malaysian consumers, enabling the company to respond more effectively to customer feedback and expectations. He also emphasised three key areas of focus: expanding network reach, strengthening aftersales services, and ramping up marketing efforts.

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The Road Transport Department (RTD) has announced a firm stance against operators of express buses and commercial goods vehicles who fail to settle their outstanding summonses by the upcoming deadline of July 8. Vehicles that remain unpaid beyond this date will face immediate enforcement action, including blacklisting and removal from public roads.

According to NST, Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli, Director-General of the RTD, warned that any vehicle with unsettled summonses will be prohibited from operating. He stressed that RTD enforcement teams will be deployed from midnight on the final day to take decisive action against non-compliant vehicles.

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Proton and Grab Malaysia have reinforced their collaborative efforts in the e-hailing industry by expanding their strategic partnership, offering a wider selection of vehicle options and enhanced benefits for Grab driver-partners nationwide. This latest development includes the introduction of the Proton S70 and premium X-Series models to Grab’s fleet, further supporting driver-partners seeking practical, reliable, and value-driven transport solutions.

Building on the momentum of the “Saga Power Up for Grab Driver-Partners” campaign initiated in November 2024, the partnership continues to yield positive results. To date, the initiative has generated 220 customer leads and led to the registration of 148 units of the Proton Saga. This ongoing success reflects the strong appeal of Proton vehicles within the e-hailing segment and highlights the shared mission of both companies to modernise Malaysia’s ride-hailing landscape with vehicles that are both affordable and dependable.

With the expansion, driver-partners now have access to a broader range of Proton models, including options suitable for the GrabCar Plus and GrabCar (6-Seater) categories. The extended offering comes with exclusive incentives designed to ease the financial burden on drivers, particularly during the early stages of vehicle ownership. These incentives include cash rebates of up to RM13,000, a 5% service discount over two years or 40,000 kilometres—whichever comes first—and RM500 in fuel assistance, providing tangible benefits for daily operational costs.

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WTC Automotif (M) Sdn Bhd (WTCA), the official distributor of GAC vehicles in Malaysia, has achieved a major milestone with the start of mass production for its second locally assembled model, the GAC EMKOO. The production rollout took place at WTCA’s assembly plant in Segambut, Kuala Lumpur, marking a key step forward in the brand’s localisation journey.

The launch of EMKOO production reflects the strengthening of technical collaboration between WTCA and GAC International. It follows the successful local assembly of the GAC GS3 EMZOOM last year and underscores both parties’ shared ambition to scale up high-quality automotive manufacturing in Malaysia. The move also signifies WTCA’s growing capability in meeting global automotive standards through local operations.

A ceremony to commemorate the Start of Production (SOP) was held at the Segambut plant, where key executives from both WTCA and GAC International were in attendance. WTCA was represented by CEO Mr. Tan Keng Meng, COO of Business Operation Ms. Yap Yoke Moi, and COO of Commercial Mr. Loh Ling Howe. GAC International was represented by Vice General Manager Mr. Ye Shao Jian, alongside Mr. Li JianLu, Director of the Technical Center, and KD Project Manager Ms. Carrie Liu. A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the formal commencement of the EMKOO’s production.

Mr. Tan highlighted the significance of the moment, stating that entering mass production with the EMKOO represents a new chapter for WTCA’s local CKD operations. He emphasised that the production of the new model demonstrates the company’s ability to meet international quality standards while assembling vehicles domestically. Tan added that the EMKOO showcases WTCA and GAC’s joint mission to deliver advanced, design-forward vehicles to Malaysian consumers with greater speed and efficiency.

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