Local News Archives

Armor All Unveils Premium Podium Series in Malaysia with Red Bull Racing Partnership

Armor All, the renowned name in automotive care and a brand under Energizer Holdings Inc., has officially launched its high-performance Armor All Podium Series in Malaysia. Developed through an exclusive partnership with Oracle Red Bull Racing, the new product line made its debut alongside a special public event at Elmina Lakeside Mall, designed to showcase its premium capabilities while engaging local car enthusiasts and families alike.

The event highlighted the standout product from the range—the Armor All Podium Series Interior Detailer—alongside demonstrations of its trusted exterior offerings. Visitors were treated to complimentary car wash services, giving them a hands-on introduction to the advanced formulations now available to the Malaysian market.

This new Podium Series represents a significant leap in car care technology, incorporating hybrid ceramic formulas based on advanced SiO₂ compounds. The result is a range that provides exceptional surface protection, long-lasting water repellency, and high durability across various vehicle surfaces. The collection has been designed with both professional detailers and everyday car owners in mind, combining performance with ease of use to suit Malaysia’s climate and urban driving conditions.

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Maserati Electrifies Malaysia with the Debut of GranTurismo and Grecale Folgore

Maserati has officially ushered in a new chapter of automotive innovation in Malaysia, introducing its first all-electric models, the GranTurismo Folgore and Grecale Folgore. These new additions not only signal the brand’s commitment to electrification but also mark Maserati as the first Italian luxury manufacturer to fully embrace electric mobility.

The GranTurismo Folgore represents a striking blend of performance and poise, embodying the elegance of a traditional grand tourer reimagined for the future. Powered by three radial electric motors, it produces a formidable 750hp, enabling the coupe to sprint from zero to 100km/h in a mere 2.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 325 km/h. At the heart of this performance lies a 92.5 kWh battery pack, with 83 kWh usable capacity, offering a WLTP-certified range of up to 450km. Thanks to its advanced 800-volt electrical system, the vehicle can regain 100 kilometres of range in just five minutes, while a charge from 20% to 80% takes only 18 minutes.

Inside, the GranTurismo Folgore delivers a refined and contemporary experience, with a minimalist interior designed around intuitive technology and tactile luxury. Despite its sleek silhouette, it offers 270 litres of boot space, ensuring everyday practicality. Priced from RM998,800, the model combines timeless Italian design with cutting-edge performance, bringing a fresh definition to the grand touring experience.

The Grecale Folgore, Maserati’s all-electric SUV, offers a different expression of the brand’s electric vision—designed for both urban commuting and adventurous getaways. Equipped with two motors generating a total of 549hp, the Grecale accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 220 km/h. A 105 kWh battery delivers up to 500 kilometres of range, supported by an AC onboard charger of 22 kW for convenient overnight charging. For quicker top-ups, 100 kilometres of range can be restored in just nine minutes.

Practicality meets Italian artistry in the Grecale’s interior, which offers 535 litres of luggage space and a meticulously crafted environment tailored to modern lifestyles. Starting at RM588,000, the SUV stands as a testament to Maserati’s ability to merge electric performance with daily versatility.

The name “Folgore,” meaning lightning in Italian, encapsulates Maserati’s forward-looking ethos—a symbol of power, energy, and progress. With the launch of these fully electric models, Maserati Malaysia redefines what it means to drive a luxury Italian vehicle in the electric age.

The GranTurismo Folgore and Grecale Folgore are now available for viewing at authorised Maserati showrooms nationwide, offering Malaysians a firsthand glimpse into the brand’s electrified future.

Hyundai Charts a New Course in Malaysia with the Launch of Hyundai Motor Malaysia

Hyundai Motor Company has taken a major step in its expansion strategy with the establishment of Hyundai Motor Malaysia (HMY), marking the brand’s transition from a distributor-led presence to a direct, principal-led operation in the country. This shift signifies Hyundai’s deeper commitment to the Malaysian market, a strategic move that aims to foster long-term growth, strengthen customer engagement, and accelerate innovation.

With this change, Hyundai assumes full responsibility for all aspects of its operations in Malaysia, including marketing, branding, sales, and customer service. This new structure empowers a locally based team to make faster, more relevant decisions and tailor its approach to the unique demands of Malaysian consumers.

HMY is the latest expression of Hyundai’s global ambition to “drive Progress for Humanity,” reinforcing Malaysia’s position as a key growth market in Southeast Asia. Hyundai is now laying the groundwork for a robust dealer network and on-ground initiatives that will solidify its presence. Its new headquarters at Menara Affin @TRX in Kuala Lumpur symbolises its aspiration to be at the centre of progress and innovation in Malaysia.

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iCAUR 03 Electrifies Malaysia with Local Preview and Off-Road Showcase

Malaysia has become the first international market outside of China to preview the iCAUR 03, the nation’s first fully electric off-road-capable SUV, following its global debut in Shanghai. Marking a new chapter for the country’s electric vehicle sector, the iCAUR 03 promises a bold blend of adventure, innovation, and cutting-edge engineering.

The new model made its local debut at the Malaysia Autoshow 2025 and is now being showcased at a specially curated iEXPERIENCE Off-Road Test Drive event held at 1 Utama Shopping Centre. Visitors and members of the media have been invited to experience the SUV’s off-road capabilities on a purpose-built course that brings to life the vehicle’s advanced engineering and electrified performance.

Emily Lek, Vice President of iCAUR Malaysia, described the iCAUR 03 as the brand’s entry point into the Malaysian market, stating that the model introduces a new era of smart electric off-road vehicles designed to provide both capability and premium ownership experiences. She noted that the slogan “Born to Play” captures the essence of the brand, which combines intelligence, design, and robust utility under its distinctive illuminated ‘i’ badge.

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MG Motor Malaysia Rolls Out Mid-Year Offers on MG5 Sedan and MG4 EV

MG Motor Malaysia is drawing attention to affordable car ownership this mid-year with enticing promotions on two of its flagship models — the MG5 sedan and the all-electric MG4. These limited-time offers underscore the brand’s continued mission to make stylish, high-quality vehicles more accessible to Malaysian motorists.

The MG5, the largest model in its B-segment class, is now being offered at RM86,900, reflecting a price reduction of RM7,000 from its original recommended retail price of RM93,900. This sedan, known for its sleek design, spacious interior, and smooth driving dynamics, has been tailored for those who value everyday practicality coupled with comfort and visual appeal.

For drivers contemplating a shift to electric mobility, MG has reinforced its commitment through the “Drive Now, Pay Later” campaign, targeting the award-winning MG4. Under this initiative, buyers of the MG4 Lux can benefit from up to 12 months of complimentary instalments, while those opting for the MG4 Standard will enjoy up to 8 months of the same. The campaign aims to remove initial financial barriers, giving prospective EV owners a head start with greater confidence and ease. These promotions are subject to terms and conditions.

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Allianz Malaysia Calls for Harsher Penalties to Tackle Widespread Motor Insurance Fraud

Allianz Malaysia Bhd has called on the authorities to introduce stronger penalties and clearer regulations to curb motor insurance fraud, which continues to drain the industry of approximately RM1 billion annually. The company’s Chief Executive Officer, Sean Wang, stressed that current legal provisions addressing fraud and misconduct fall short when it comes to dealing with the tactics employed by unscrupulous tow truck operators and workshops.

Wang highlighted that while existing laws indirectly touch on fraudulent practices, they do not adequately address the scale and complexity of the issue. According to FMT, he estimated that around 10% of the industry’s RM10 billion total annual motor claims are lost to inflated or manipulated claims.

He pointed to a deeply entrenched network of touts, tow truck operators, and complicit workshops who have long operated by inflating repair costs. These claims are often exaggerated by 15% to 20%, resulting in substantial financial losses for insurers. Touts are known to patrol busy urban areas, especially on motorcycles, and race to accident scenes where they quickly offer towing services under the guise of being affiliated with insurance providers.

Once a vehicle is in their hands, these operators typically delay informing insurers and may hold onto vehicles for days or even weeks while negotiating with workshops willing to overcharge for repairs. In some cases, substandard parts are used or unnecessary work is performed to justify higher claim amounts. According to Wang, this practice has persisted for more than 40 years, misleading policyholders into believing their insurance provider is handling the repairs when in fact, the vehicle is in the custody of unverified agents.

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Repossession Agent Admits to Trespass, Receives RM2,800 Fine

A 24-year-old vehicle repossession agent was fined RM2,800 by the Magistrate’s Court here after admitting to trespassing into the home of a car owner in Bandar Amanjaya, according to NST.

The court heard that Muhammad Aiman Mudzakir Azmi unlawfully entered the property around 7pm on 14 June, despite the premises being secured with a locked gate. His actions led to a charge under Section 448 of the Penal Code for criminal trespass. The offence carries a penalty of up to three years in prison, a fine not exceeding RM5,000, or both, upon conviction.

Magistrate Khairatul Animah Jelani imposed the fine following Muhammad Aiman’s guilty plea. The court took into account his admission of guilt, which was said to have expedited the proceedings.

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PRO-NET Accelerates EV Expansion with Three New Dealerships Nationwide

PRO-NET, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Proton, has further extended its electric vehicle (EV) footprint this June with the grand opening of three new dealerships under its Proton e.MAS and smart brands. These new outlets in Kota Kinabalu, IOI Putrajaya, and Old Klang Road, Kuala Lumpur, mark a significant stride in the company’s strategy to enhance EV accessibility across Malaysia.

With these additions, the Proton e.MAS network now comprises 35 fully operational dealerships out of a total of 47 appointed across both Peninsular and East Malaysia. The newly unveiled branches include Fook Loi Eurocar in Kota Kinabalu, Jewel Sonic at IOI City Mall, Putrajaya, and Peringgit Auto Max on Old Klang Road, Kuala Lumpur. These locations boast complete sales, service, and support facilities tailored to the e.MAS 7—the fastest-selling EV in Malaysia, which has surpassed 3,000 units sold in less than a year.

The network expansion is supported by a robust ecosystem, including 25 3S centres (sales, service, and spare parts), 31 DC fast charging stations, and 10 body and paint centres. PRO-NET’s efforts reflect the company’s dedication to delivering a seamless EV ownership experience for Malaysian consumers.

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Concerns Mount Over Tampering of Speed Limiters in Heavy Vehicles

Safety concerns surrounding heavy vehicles have resurfaced as industry insiders warn that speed limiters, though mandated in new commercial buses and lorries, can be bypassed by trained technicians. This vulnerability has prompted calls for a more comprehensive approach to vehicle safety.

According to NST, a technician from a local bus manufacturing firm stated that modern speed limiters are embedded within the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) of heavy vehicles and rely on sensor inputs to regulate speed. However, the technician revealed that former service centre mechanics may still possess the software required to alter or deactivate the system and could offer such services discreetly through private workshops.

Given this loophole, the technician stressed the critical role of global positioning systems (GPS). As a standard feature in newly registered vehicles under the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD), GPS units are typically integrated with the speed limiter system. Unlike limiters, GPS-linked systems can accurately log and monitor a vehicle’s speed and alert operators of any infractions, making tampering more detectable.

Industry figures have also drawn attention to the broader technological framework within heavy vehicles. Thayalan Subramaniam, General Manager of MAN Truck and Bus Malaysia, noted that their vehicles’ speed limiters are also embedded in the ECU and set in accordance with regulatory guidelines — 89km/h for lorries and 100km/h for buses. He assured that MAN uses advanced diagnostic tools with updated security patches to prevent unauthorised system modifications. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that tampering can only be detected during a formal vehicle inspection at authorised workshops.

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MY BMW World 2025: BMW Malaysia Unveils the New BMW M3 Competition M xDrive

BMW Malaysia has made a powerful impression at the MY BMW World 2025 exhibition with the debut of its latest M models, showcasing the full breadth of performance, innovation, and design associated with the marque’s high-performance division. The highlight of the event was the unveiling of the New BMW M5, now featuring an electrified powertrain for the first time — a bold step in the evolution of BMW M performance. Accompanying it were the New BMW M3 Competition M xDrive, the dynamic and compact New BMW M2, and the public premiere of the New BMW M4 Competition Coupé M xDrive.

Among the standout models, the New BMW M3 Competition M xDrive reaffirmed its status as a benchmark in the high-performance executive saloon segment. Now enhanced with sharper styling and technological upgrades, it blends track-ready dynamics with everyday practicality. The updated design includes newly sculpted LED headlights as standard, with optional Adaptive LED Headlights incorporating Matrix technology and High-Beam Assistant for improved visibility.

Flared wheel arches, M quad tailpipes, and high-gloss Shadowline trims accentuate its aggressive stance, while double-spoke 826 M forged wheels in black — staggered in 19 and 20 inches front and rear — provide a purposeful finish. Red high-gloss M Compound brakes offer both aesthetic appeal and potent stopping power. At the rear, a high-gloss black BMW M emblem with a silver outline subtly nods to its exclusive M heritage.

Inside, the cabin reflects BMW’s meticulous attention to detail, merging motorsport functionality with refined craftsmanship. A newly designed M leather steering wheel with a flattened bottom and M-colour contrast stitching features M1 and M2 shortcut buttons for quick access to custom drive modes. The BMW Curved Display — a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 14.9-inch central touchscreen — operates on BMW Operating System 8.5, offering M-specific graphics for an intuitive, driver-focused experience.

Motorsport-inspired carbon fibre trim, an anthracite M headliner, and galvanised controls heighten the sense of performance luxury. Other enhancements include redesigned air vents, a red Start/Stop button, and Comfort Access for seamless entry. M Sport seats with electric adjustment, lumbar support, memory function, and signature M seat belts provide both comfort and support, complemented by a luxury instrument panel. A Harman Kardon surround sound system with 16 speakers and a 464-watt amplifier completes the premium interior.

Beneath the bonnet lies the formidable BMW M TwinPower Turbo six-cylinder in-line engine — a high-revving unit adapted from BMW’s endurance race car, the M4 GT3. Producing 530hp and 650Nm of torque, this latest iteration marks a 20 hp improvement over its predecessor. The result is blistering acceleration, reaching 0–200 km/h in just 11.8 seconds. Power is transmitted through an eight-speed M Steptronic Sport transmission, ensuring smooth and immediate gear shifts. For purists, the standard M3 Competition retains rear-wheel drive and offers 510hp, delivering a more traditional driving experience.

The car’s handling is sharpened with Adaptive M Suspension, which adapts in milliseconds to road conditions and driver input, offering an ideal blend of comfort and responsiveness. The M xDrive all-wheel-drive system ensures maximum grip and agility by distributing power dynamically between the axles. The drive setup can be tailored for either rear-biased excitement or full traction, supported by the M Sport Differential and M Drive Professional package. These systems work together to provide enhanced performance control, including integrated drift analysis and telemetry in Track mode. Practical features such as Cruise Control with braking, Driving Assistant, and Parking Assistant Plus reinforce the M3’s everyday usability.

The New BMW M3 Competition M xDrive is offered in a wide palette of exterior colours that cater to individual tastes. These include vivid finishes like M Sao Paulo Yellow, M Portimao Blue, M Toronto Red, Isle of Man Green, and Aventurine Red, as well as more understated hues such as Alpine White, Skyscraper Grey, and Black Sapphire. Inside, customers can choose from four Merino leather upholstery options: Yas Marina Blue with contrasting elements, Silverstone, Kyalami Orange, and classic Black. Each interior combination is designed to echo the M3’s bold, sporting persona while offering a refined, bespoke feel.

As BMW Malaysia continues to electrify and elevate its M portfolio, the MY BMW World 2025 exhibition marks a significant milestone in the brand’s performance journey, with the New BMW M3 Competition M xDrive standing proudly at the forefront of innovation and driving exhilaration.

The new M3 Competition M xDrive has a starting price of RM838,800. Additionally, the BMW Service & Repair Inclusive (BSRI) programme ensures peace of mind with a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty, along with 5 years / 100,000km of service coverage. For Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), service coverage extends to 6 years with unlimited mileage, while an 8-year high-voltage battery warranty. With BMW Roadside Assistance, customers can receive 24/7 emergency support – including towing, courtesy cars, and hotel accommodation in the event of an unprecedented emergency.