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Volvo Car Malaysia Completes 2026 Line-Up with Refreshed and Electrified Models

Volvo Car Malaysia has wrapped up its transition to the 2026 model year, refreshing its entire line-up following the introduction of the updated XC60 and the new single-motor EC40. The move reinforces Volvo’s direction towards an electrified future while giving Malaysian buyers more choices across its premium SUV and electric vehicle range.

The refreshed XC60, which made its debut in September, now offers updated styling, new features, and improved comfort. Available in two variants, the XC60 T8 AWD plug-in hybrid is priced from RM362,888, while the XC60 B5 AWD mild hybrid starts at RM328,888. The plug-in hybrid version combines strong performance with practicality, offering up to 89 kilometres of pure electric driving range on a single charge — ideal for daily commutes with zero tailpipe emissions. With over 450 Nm of torque, it delivers a smooth yet energetic drive.

The mild-hybrid B5 variant provides a more traditional setup with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine paired with an integrated starter-generator, delivering seamless acceleration without the need for external charging.

For 2026, the Volvo EC40 — the brand’s first electric-only crossover SUV — adds a new single-motor variant to complement the existing twin-motor version. Priced at RM248,888, this new model features a rear-mounted electric motor producing 238 hp and completing the 0–100 km/h sprint in 7.3 seconds.

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Proton Showcases S70 Efficiency at the Penang One Tank Challenge

Proton recently organised the Penang Proton One Tank Challenge as part of the district-level Hari Sukan Negara celebrations for Daerah Seberang Perai Tengah on 11 October. Acting as one of the strategic partners for the event, Proton used the occasion to showcase the S70 sedan’s real-world fuel efficiency and driving performance.

The challenge followed closely after Proton was named one of the title sponsors for the 2025 Penang Bridge International Marathon, where a new Proton S70 will be the top prize in the event’s lucky draw.

Under the theme “Drive Efficiently. Live Actively. Celebrate Malaysia,” the challenge aligned with the National Sports Day’s goal of encouraging active lifestyles. Thirty-three Proton S70 owners took part in the six-hour event, which ran from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Participants drove along a scenic 110 km route covering both Penang Island and the mainland, crossing the two bridges that link them.

The event drew strong participation from Proton S70 owners, all competing for cash prizes by achieving the lowest fuel consumption. Starting from Setia Sentral Juru, the route took drivers through Bayan Lepas and George Town via the Second Penang Bridge before returning to the mainland through the First Penang Bridge.

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Hyundai STARIA Goes Local as Hyundai Motor Malaysia Begins Sales of CKD Model

Hyundai Motor Malaysia (HMY) has officially begun sales of the locally assembled Hyundai STARIA. Produced at Inokom’s assembly plant in Kulim, Kedah — operated under Sime Darby Motors — the STARIA becomes the first locally produced model under HMY since its establishment earlier this year.

The move represents more than just a manufacturing milestone. Hyundai Motor Malaysia President, Eric Lee, said the start of local production reflects Hyundai’s confidence in Malaysia’s potential as both a key market and an emerging assembly hub within the brand’s global network. He noted that the investment is part of Hyundai’s long-term commitment to build a stronger presence in Malaysia, not only through product offerings but also through local industrial development.

The introduction of the CKD STARIA also signals Hyundai’s broader commitment to local investment and supply chain growth. Beyond assembling vehicles, HMY aims to contribute to the local economy by supporting Malaysia’s expanding automotive ecosystem. This initiative aligns with the brand’s long-term goal of positioning itself as both a mobility solutions provider and a strategic partner in Malaysia’s industrial development.

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BHPetrol Answers Your BUDI95 Questions

With the launch of the Budi95 targeted petrol subsidy, many are still struggling to come to terms on how it works.

While we can all agree that the targeted subsidy program benefits everyone but using it has not been easy.

This is because every pump is different and thus the method to claim your allocated 300 litres per month is not the same at different fuel stations.

Recognising this issue, BHPetrol has launched a slew of social media content designed to help users better understand the process.

The content includes “3 easy steps to use Budi95”, “You ask, we answer,” “How to check your Budi95 balance”, and more.

We have shared some of the content below for your reference, so if you have questions about Budi95, BHPetrol has your answer, visit any of BHPetrol’s social media platforms to find out more. (more…)

Proton e.MAS 5 Draws 3,000 Bookings in First Week as Malaysians Embrace Affordable EV Ownership

PRO-NET, the electric vehicle arm of national automaker Proton, has hit a major milestone with the Proton e.MAS 5 — Malaysia’s first truly affordable EV, securing 3,000 bookings within its first week of availability. Even more impressively, over half of that figure came within the first 24 hours, signalling an overwhelming response from Malaysian buyers eager to make the switch to electric mobility.

The e.MAS 5’s strong debut follows the success of its larger sibling, the Proton e.MAS 7, which continues to dominate the local EV market in 2025. As of the end of September, Proton has sold a total of 6,655 units of the e.MAS 7, including 443 units exported to neighbouring markets.

With a 24% share of Malaysia’s EV segment, the model has held its position as the country’s best-selling electric vehicle for nine consecutive months — an achievement that has clearly boosted confidence in the brand’s growing EV line-up.

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Chery Malaysia Celebrates Sales Advisors and Marks Milestone in Professional Training

Chery Malaysia recently held its Sales Advisors’ Appreciation Dinner, bringing together its nationwide sales team to celebrate their commitment and achievements. The event marked a significant milestone for the brand, with 77 Sales Advisors graduating from the Chery Certified Sales Professional (CCSP) Programme — a homegrown initiative aimed at raising the bar for customer engagement and product expertise across Chery’s dealerships in Malaysia.

The CCSP Programme, which began in April 2025, reflects Chery Malaysia’s focus on developing a knowledgeable, confident, and customer-oriented sales network. It is a mandatory certification for all Sales Advisors with at least six months of experience and combines classroom learning with practical assessments. Over the course of three months, participants go through comprehensive training designed to equip them with the skills to match customers with the right Chery model, while effectively explaining the brand’s growing range of advanced technologies and features.

At the event, Chery Malaysia Vice President, Lee Wen Hsiang, emphasised that the company’s frontline staff play a crucial role in shaping the ownership experience. He stated that Sales Advisors are not only representatives of the brand but also the bridge between the customer and the technology behind every Chery vehicle. He explained that as the company’s product range evolves — particularly with innovations such as the Chery Super Hybrid system — continuous learning ensures that the sales team grows in tandem, delivering accurate information and a memorable showroom experience.

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Porsche Malaysia Completes Its First Full Classic 911 Restoration

Deep within the workshop of Porsche Centre Johor Bahru, a slice of motoring history has been reborn. Porsche Malaysia has achieved a major milestone with the completion of its first full ground-up restoration of a classic 911 T, a project carried out entirely in-house by technicians trained and certified under the Porsche Classic Partner programme.

The result is more than just a restored car; it’s a precise recreation of an automotive icon brought back to life with the same care and craftsmanship it received when it first left the factory.

The process was a painstaking one, driven by an obsession with authenticity. Over many months, the team completely dismantled the car — every bolt, panel, and mechanical component was catalogued, refinished, and rebuilt to match the exact specifications outlined in Porsche’s original factory documentation. The restoration followed the brand’s strict international standards, ensuring that every element met the marque’s expectations for quality and historical accuracy.

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iCAUR Malaysia Opens Flagship Dealership In Damansara

iCAUR Malaysia has officially opened iCAUR Damansara, its flagship dealership in Malaysia, marking a significant step in the brand’s expansion and its goal of redefining the electric vehicle ownership experience in the country. The outlet is owned and operated by Carramax Luxe Sdn. Bhd.

Spanning around 40,000 square feet, iCAUR Damansara is designed to combine accessibility, convenience, and premium service within Greater Kuala Lumpur. The facility houses a showroom capable of displaying up to eight vehicles, a dedicated delivery bay, and five EV charging bays exclusively for customers.

The dealership also prioritises comfort and engagement. Its customer lounge features complimentary Wi-Fi, coffee, soft drinks, and light refreshments, as well as two Nintendo consoles for visitors to enjoy.

On the service front, iCAUR Damansara is equipped with eight service bays and a full Body and Paint (B&P) centre with aluminium body repair capabilities and advanced tools. Additional services include accessories installation, vehicle wrapping, and Paint Protection Film (PPF) applications, providing a complete after-sales solution under one roof.

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GWM Malaysia Opens Bookings for the New Ora Good Cat and Good Cat GT — Prices Start from RM115,000

GWM Malaysia has officially opened bookings for the new Ora Good Cat and the sportier Ora Good Cat GT, with prices starting from RM115,000.

First introduced to Malaysia in 2023, the Ora Good Cat was among the earliest fully electric hatchbacks from China to enter the local market. Its combination of retro-inspired design, premium features, and practical driving range quickly made it popular among city-based EV buyers.

The latest line-up builds on that success. The updated Ora Good Cat now features refreshed styling and improved comfort, while the Ora Good Cat GT adds a sportier character and enhanced performance. Both models continue GWM’s “Extra Good EV” philosophy, combining design, technology, and safety in a more refined package.

The new Ora Good Cat showcases a design that balances contemporary flair with everyday usability. Its smooth and responsive drive is matched by an upgraded suite of safety systems and driver assistance technologies. GWM describes it as an EV that delivers “everything and a little extra,” reflecting its goal of making electric mobility more rewarding and accessible.

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Mitsubishi XPANDER Surpasses 50,000 Units Sold in Malaysia

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), the official distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in the country, has announced that its best-selling model, the Mitsubishi XPANDER, has achieved a major milestone with over 50,000 units sold since its introduction. The model’s continued popularity has also secured its position as Malaysia’s No.1 non-national MPV for five consecutive years, maintaining a strong lead in its segment since November 2020.

The XPANDER remains a strong favourite among families for its seven-seat configuration, spacious cabin, and SUV-inspired styling. Designed with practicality in mind, it strikes a balance between everyday usability and comfort, making it equally suitable for city commuting or longer road trips.

To commemorate the sales milestone, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia has launched the ‘XPANDER Step Up To Your Dream’ campaign, offering savings of up to RM10,000. The limited-time campaign includes monthly instalments starting from RM799, along with insurance subsidies and trade-in offers for new customers.

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