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Caltex Malaysia Launches Next-Generation Engine Oil Tailored for Hybrid Vehicles

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 Unveils All-New X50: A Bold Step Forward in Style, Tech, and Performance

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.

Zeekr Strengthens Presence in Malaysia with Launch of National Sales Company and Major Expansion Plans

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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Ferrari Loses Trademark Dispute Against Malaysian Energy Drink Brand Over Horse Emblem

Luxury Italian carmaker Ferrari has suffered a legal setback in Malaysia after the High Court ruled against its trademark infringement claim involving a local energy drink company’s logo that also features rearing horses.

The dispute centred on Ferrari’s claim that the “Wee Power” logo used by Sunrise-Mark Sdn Bhd bore too close a resemblance to its iconic single rearing horse emblem, famously associated with the marque’s global brand identity. However, the High Court dismissed Ferrari’s attempt to block Sunrise-Mark’s trademark registration, finding no substantial similarity between the two logos.

Presiding Judge Adlin Abdul Majid concluded that the opposition filed by Ferrari was unfounded and that Sunrise-Mark’s trademark could proceed to registration. In her decision dated 30 May, the judge stated that Ferrari’s arguments about potential confusion among consumers lacked merit.

Ferrari had sought to overturn the Registrar of Trademarks’ previous decision allowing Sunrise-Mark’s application, arguing that the energy drink’s logo infringed upon its exclusive rights to the prancing horse symbol. The Italian automaker maintained that despite the presence of the words “Wee Power” and the design differences, the rearing horses used by Sunrise-Mark could still mislead consumers.

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RTD Issues Ultimatum to Commercial Vehicle Operators Over Unpaid Summonses

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 Expands Strategic Partnership with Grab Malaysia to Strengthen Support for E-Hailing Sector

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 Kicks Off Local Production of GAC EMKOO in Malaysia

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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BMW Group Malaysia Unveils Official Pricing for New BMW X3 20 xDrive M Sport and BMW 320i Sport

BMW Group Malaysia has officially announced the pricing for its newly updated BMW X3 20 xDrive M Sport and BMW 320i Sport models, both of which were previewed earlier at the MY BMW World 2025 showcase. Now available at authorised dealerships nationwide, the two models mark the next step in BMW’s commitment to delivering premium mobility experiences tailored for Malaysian drivers.

The latest iteration of the BMW X3 builds upon its longstanding reputation for blending athletic driving dynamics with refined comfort. The new X3 20 xDrive M Sport introduces an updated exterior defined by bolder lines and sharper contours, complementing its already commanding presence and versatile capability.

Meanwhile, the new BMW 320i Sport arrives as part of the 2025 refresh of the BMW 3 Series range and celebrates five decades of the iconic sedan. With its business-like styling and confident proportions, the 320i Sport continues to offer an engaging drive with an elegant edge suited for modern professionals.

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SISMA Auto Unveils New DENZA Showroom and Service Centre in Glenmarie

SISMA Auto has taken a major step forward in the luxury electric vehicle (EV) space with the grand opening of its brand-new DENZA showroom and service centre in Glenmarie, Shah Alam. The launch marks a significant milestone in the group’s ambitious expansion strategy, signalling a deep commitment to the growing demand for premium electric mobility in Malaysia.

DENZA, a luxury EV marque under the global automotive giant BYD, is quickly becoming a rising star in international markets. As one of the first dealers to bring the DENZA brand to Malaysian shores, SISMA Auto is positioning itself at the forefront of this new wave of high-end electrification. The dealership’s collaboration with DENZA is aligned with BYD’s broader global momentum, aiming to elevate the standard for premium EV ownership in the country.

Spanning a sprawling 20,000 square feet across two levels, the new showroom represents a substantial RM25 million investment. Designed to reflect DENZA’s forward-thinking brand identity, the showroom combines modern aesthetics with an emphasis on sustainability. Its clean lines, elegant finishes and refined atmosphere create an immersive space where visitors can experience DENZA’s cutting-edge models up close.

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All-New Hyundai Santa FE Previewed: Bold, Boxy and Commanding

Hyundai Motor Malaysia has offered an exciting first glimpse of the all-new Hyundai Santa Fe, a bold and boxy SUV that stands out with its commanding presence and premium design touches. The rugged silhouette, complemented by a wide stance and high hood, marks a significant shift in styling for Hyundai’s flagship D/E-segment SUV. Featuring bold fenders, a distinctive H-light LED signature, a dark chrome-finished grille, and a hidden rear wiper, the new Santa Fe looks every bit the adventurer it promises to be.

But this SUV isn’t just about striking looks. Practicality is clearly at the heart of the design too. One of the standout features is the wider tailgate opening, which makes loading and unloading cargo easier than ever, perfect for families or road-trippers who pack heavy.

Under the hood, the new Santa Fe comes in three distinct variants for the Malaysian market. The Prime and Prestige trims are both hybrids, each powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. These variants produce a respectable 235PS at 5,500 rpm and 367Nm of torque from just 1,000 to 4,000 rpm—more than enough for smooth city driving and confident highway cruising.

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