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Toyota Motor Thailand is preparing to introduce a significant update to its popular compact sedan lineup with the launch of the Toyota Yaris ATIV Hybrid, expected to debut in August 2025. Known in Malaysia as the Toyota Vios, this new hybrid variant will bring electrified performance to the model for the first time, marking a notable evolution for the nameplate.

According to AutolifeThailand, the hybrid Yaris ATIV will feature Toyota’s 1.5-litre full hybrid powertrain, likely inherited from the Yaris Cross. Although the core mechanicals are expected to remain similar, there could be minor technical adjustments specific to the sedan platform. This system is comprised of a 1.5-litre four-cylinder DOHC petrol engine, coded 2NR-VEX, which displaces 1,496 cc. It produces 91hp at 5,500 rpm and 121Nm of torque between 4,000 and 4,800 rpm.

2022 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid

Mated to this internal combustion unit is an electric motor generating 80hp and 141Nm of torque, culminating in a combined output of 111hp. The hybrid system is paired with an e-CVT automatic transmission and draws energy from a 0.7 kWh lithium-ion battery. The drivetrain powers the front wheels and is compatible with E20 ethanol fuel. Factory data suggests the vehicle will reach a top speed of 160km/h and deliver an impressive fuel economy of 26.3 km/litre.

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Geely has officially introduced the Galaxy A7 EM-i, a new plug-in hybrid sedan under its Galaxy sub-brand, aiming to combine high efficiency with extended range in a sleek, modern package. The car, which sits below the Galaxy Star 8 EM-i in the model hierarchy, enters the competitive mid-size sedan segment with a focus on affordability, practicality, and cutting-edge hybrid technology.

The Galaxy A7 EM-i promises exceptional fuel economy, consuming just over 2 litres per 100km when running on petrol alone. With its hybrid powertrain, the car is capable of achieving a total driving range of more than 2,100km under certain configurations, according to Geely’s internal testing.

Designed to appeal to budget-conscious consumers, the model is expected to be priced around 100,000 yuan (RM58,937), positioning it as a compelling option in the growing plug-in hybrid market.

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Subaru has announced plans to debut a new vehicle at the upcoming Japan Mobility Show, sparking speculation about the brand’s future direction. The reveal was made during an information session held at Fuji Speedway in conjunction with the Fuji 24 Hours Race, which is part of the third round of the Super Taikyu Series.

According to Car Watch, during the session, Tetsuro Fujinuki, Subaru’s Executive Managing Director and Chief Technical Officer, confirmed the forthcoming unveiling with a cryptic slide image that hinted at a new model. Although the image appeared heavily edited, it marked the first official visual tease of what may be Subaru’s next performance vehicle. While rumours suggest this could be a new WRX, Fujinuki refrained from confirming any details.

Fujinuki, who took on additional responsibilities for product planning in April, indicated his intention to develop a car that embodies what he described as a “more Subaru-like and interesting” identity. He acknowledged the desire to reveal more concrete details but noted internal pressure to remain deliberately vague ahead of the official debut.

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Bentley Motors has redefined the boundaries of performance in the luxury SUV segment with the launch of its most formidable Bentayga to date. The new Bentayga Speed, equipped with a newly developed 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, is now the fastest, most dynamically capable, and engaging model in the Bentayga family, surpassing even the previous W12-powered variant.

The powerplant at the heart of this flagship SUV delivers 650PS and 850Nm of torque, pushing the Bentayga Speed from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.4 seconds. Its top speed reaches a formidable 310km/h, setting new performance benchmarks for Bentley’s high-riding grand tourer. The V8’s muscular powerband, delivered smoothly between 2,250 and 4,500 rpm, ensures a constant surge of acceleration, true to Bentley’s performance ethos.

Beyond its raw figures, this latest engine is engineered for character and acoustics. A standard sports exhaust system provides a rich and sonorous soundtrack, augmented by distinctive dual elliptical tailpipes. For those seeking even more auditory drama, the optional Titanium Akrapovič exhaust intensifies the aural experience, complete with quad tailpipes and a deeper, more aggressive note.

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The fifth-generation Toyota Supra is nearing the end of its production run, with assembly scheduled to conclude by March 2026. Co-developed with BMW and manufactured in Austria alongside the BMW Z4, this iteration of the iconic sports car will mark the end of a chapter in the Supra legacy—but not the end of the story.

Toyota has confirmed the release of a Final Edition for the 2026 model year, marking the car’s farewell from global showrooms. While this signals the conclusion of the current generation, the Supra nameplate is not being retired permanently. Instead, the beloved badge is being put on temporary hiatus.

According to Toyota Motor North America’s Senior Vice President of Product Planning and Strategy, Cooper Ericksen, the company fully intends to bring the Supra back in the future. He explained that introducing a next-generation Supra is seen as a logical step forward, though the specifics, such as timing and direction, are still under review. What remains certain, however, is Toyota’s intent to avoid another extended gap between generations, similar to the two-decade void between the revered fourth-generation Supra and the GR Supra’s return in 2019.

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Geely Holding Group Chairman Li Shufu has reaffirmed the Chinese automotive giant’s dual-track strategy of developing both traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and smart electric models, signalling a firm stance against abandoning conventional powertrains in favour of full electrification.

In a recent internal address to employees, Li made clear that Geely will continue to allocate significant resources towards the development of ICE and hybrid technologies while simultaneously advancing its electric vehicle (EV) offerings. He described the company’s long-term approach as “walking on two legs,” underlining the importance of maintaining balance between established propulsion systems and the innovations of future mobility.

Li dismissed suggestions that Geely would scale back its ICE operations. Instead, he stressed that the company would remain invested in refining and leading in traditional powertrains, particularly as global demand for such vehicles persists in many markets. This commitment, he explained, ensures the company’s resilience and flexibility amid the fast-evolving automotive landscape.

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Land Rover has unveiled a comprehensive refresh of its Defender range for 2025, introducing significant powertrain upgrades, enhanced off-road technology, and subtle design revisions aimed at solidifying its position as the go-to SUV for adventurous motorists.

The headline update is the introduction of the new P425 5.0-litre supercharged V8 petrol engine, which produces 425hp and 550Nm of torque. This powerhouse replaces the P400 inline-six petrol variant and is now available in both the Defender 90 and 110. The addition marks a substantial performance boost for both models.

Also joining the Defender family is the D250 mild-hybrid diesel, which delivers 245hp and a robust 570Nm of torque. In the updated line-up, the Defender 90 can now be specified with either the new V8 or the D250 diesel, while the larger Defender 110 finally gains access to both. A new trim, dubbed S D250, adds electronic air suspension and 19-inch alloy wheels as standard, with 18-inch steel wheels offered as a no-cost option for those preferring a more utilitarian setup.

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Great Wall Motor (GWM) has officially introduced the internal combustion engine (ICE) version of its Haval Raptor SUV in the Chinese market, expanding the model’s lineup beyond the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) variant launched earlier. This new petrol-powered variant is positioned as a capable off-road SUV and is now available in two trim levels.

The Haval Raptor 2.0T 4WD Pro is priced at 156,900 yuan, approximately RM102,300, while the more premium 2.0T 4WD Ultra is listed at 166,900 yuan, or around RM108,800. In contrast, the previously released PHEV models range from 165,800 yuan to 192,800 yuan (roughly RM108,000 to RM126,000).

Offered in two size configurations, the ICE variant is available either with an external spare tyre or with an external storage box mounted at the rear. The spare tyre version measures 4,800 mm in length, while the box version is shorter at 4,680 mm. Both versions maintain a width of 1,950 mm, a height of 1,843 mm, and a 2,738 mm wheelbase, roughly the same size as a Tank 300. Wheel options include 18-inch (245/60 R18) and 19-inch (255/60 R19) tyres. Five body colours are available: green, two shades of grey, black, and white.

Visually, the Haval Raptor retains the squared-off, boxy silhouette reminiscent of the PHEV version. It features traditional door handles and roof racks, while the front end showcases a redesigned grille with vertical elements and distinctive rectangular headlights inspired by the mortise and tenon joints of traditional Chinese architecture. At the rear, vertically-oriented taillights are fitted with 300 red LEDs emitting at 628 nanometres.

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BMW has officially revealed its latest high-performance compact coupé, the BMW M2 CS, a limited-edition model that represents the pinnacle of driving pleasure both on track and public roads. Production will take place at the BMW Group Plant in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, with a global market rollout scheduled for late summer 2025. Key markets include the United States, Germany, and China. In Germany, the M2 CS is priced at €115,000 (RM553,035).

The M2 CS is based on the second-generation BMW M2 but significantly enhances the car’s dynamic capabilities. Its heart is a reworked 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine featuring M TwinPower Turbo technology. This upgraded powerplant delivers 530hp, 50hp more than the standard M2, matching the output of the BMW M3 Competition Sedan and BMW M4 Competition Coupé with xDrive. Torque has also been increased to 650Nm, available between 2,650 and 5,730 rpm. The engine revs to 7,200 rpm and delivers peak power at 6,250 rpm.

The power is transmitted to the rear wheels via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, which allows the driver to adjust shift characteristics using three settings. Gear changes can also be manually controlled through the steering wheel-mounted paddles or the newly styled M selector lever.

Performance metrics place the M2 CS among the fastest in its segment. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds, and to 200 km/h in 11.7 seconds. A figure of 3.5 seconds to 100 km/h is achievable using the 1-foot rollout method. Mid-range acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h takes only 3.4 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 302 km/h, courtesy of the standard M Driver’s Package.

Weight has been reduced by approximately 30kg compared to the regular M2, thanks to the strategic use of lightweight materials such as carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP). Components, including the roof, boot lid, front splitter, rear diffuser, and centre console, are crafted from CFRP, enhancing both performance and aesthetics. Forged M light-alloy wheels come as standard, with track tyres fitted—19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear. Buyers can opt for either ultra-track or sport tyres at no extra cost.

The M2 CS is equipped with a model-specific engine mount offering higher stiffness, resulting in better throttle response and more direct power delivery. The M-specific cooling system ensures optimal thermal performance during spirited driving, and the dry-sump oiling system guarantees consistent lubrication even under extreme G-forces.

To complement the powertrain, BMW M has overhauled the chassis. The adaptive M suspension features bespoke tuning for springs, dampers, and electronic control systems, with the ride height lowered by eight millimetres. The M Servotronic steering and M Sport differential have also been calibrated specifically for the CS model. Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and M Dynamic Mode have been refined to optimise the car’s capabilities on track.

Braking is handled by the standard M Compound system with red callipers, while an M Carbon ceramic setup is available as an option. The CS rides on exclusive forged M wheels in a striking Gold Bronze finish. These not only reduce unsprung weight but also contribute to the car’s distinctive appearance.

The exterior design is aggressive and purposeful. In addition to the CFRP elements, the M2 CS features a unique black M kidney grille, black front splitter, and an exposed carbon-fibre roof. The rear is distinguished by a ducktail-style spoiler and quad matt-black exhaust tips. Available exterior colours include Sapphire Black metallic, BMW Individual Velvet Blue metallic, M Brooklyn Grey metallic, and M Portimao Blue metallic. Standard adaptive LED headlights with BMW Selective Beam and M Shadowline detailing add to the visual drama.

Inside, the cockpit continues the theme of motorsport-inspired design. Heated M Carbon bucket seats with Merino leather upholstery offer extensive electric adjustments and integrate removable head restraints to accommodate multi-point harnesses. The centre console is made from CFRP, while the M Alcantara steering wheel—featuring a flat-bottom rim, red centre marker, and M buttons—enhances the racing ambience.

Interior details specific to the CS model include red-accented “CS” logos on the seats, centre console, and illuminated door sills. M seatbelts, ambient lighting with customisable colours, and an M Anthracite headliner complete the premium, performance-focused cabin.

The digital experience is powered by BMW Operating System 8.5. A fully digital BMW Curved Display comprises a 12.3-inch information cluster and a 14.9-inch control screen. The BMW Live Cockpit Professional is standard and includes BMW Maps navigation, a head-up display, augmented view, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Dual-zone climate control, keyless entry, and a Harman Kardon sound system are also part of the standard equipment.

For those seeking an even more visceral soundtrack, BMW offers an optional M Performance titanium exhaust system with carbon-fibre tailpipes. Designed specifically for the CS, it delivers an authentic racing note, complemented by an Active Sound Design feature that enhances interior acoustics based on selected drive modes.

In summary, the new BMW M2 CS stands as the ultimate expression of the compact M car formula. With a blend of cutting-edge performance, reduced weight, and high-end features, it promises to set a new benchmark in the segment for driving purists and track-day enthusiasts alike.

China’s Ministry of Commerce is set to hold a closed-door meeting with major automakers and industry groups, including BYD and Dongfeng Motor, to discuss the growing trend of unused registered vehicles being sold as secondhand cars. The meeting comes amid increasing concerns over the implications of this practice on the country’s automotive market and sales dynamics.

The confidential meeting, confirmed by a source with direct knowledge of the matter, will also involve key industry organisations such as the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM), the China Automobile Dealers Association (CADA), and several prominent used car trading platforms.

The unusual practice—dubbed “zero mileage secondhand cars”—has sparked debate following recent remarks by Great Wall Motor Chairman Wei Jianjun. In an interview with Sina Finance last week, Wei described how intense price competition in China’s car market has led to a growing number of vehicles being registered and issued licence plates—thereby officially counted as sold—yet remaining undriven. These vehicles are then reintroduced into the market as used cars despite never having been driven, creating a grey area in automotive sales reporting.

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